Becoming Adolf

In becoming Adolf, the author Rich Cohen, shows the symbolism of the toothrush mustache and the ideals that it currently represents even in present day society. He truely makes an attempt to change the misconcieved notions society has towards this style of mustache today. He attempts this by not only describing how he includes the style of mustache in his appearance today, even though he is Jewish, but also by providing numerous historical facts about Hitler and other leaders who wore the style with glory. He tried to show how the mustache was a symbol of power and was worn by many great men. The negative impact the style of mustache has today on society is evident and even though Cohen strived to defuse this symbol for evil by wearing it out in public and experiencing first hand how powerful it was, he still was confronted with the same shocking reactions it had always produced and always will produce.


This author effectively analysizes the perceptions society has on this certain style of mustahce by connecting research and historical facts on Hitler, and other powerful leaders with facial hair, with his personal experiment with the style of mustache. The history of the mustache really builds a foundation for the signifigance of the particular style. In this case the readers can relate to the research and facts provided as well as Cohen's experience with societies reaction first hand. He shows that people no matter what will either be angered feared or completely disgusted by the style of mustache he presents himself with. Basically this type of mustahce cannot be worn with pride.

Cohen learns and experiences first hand that no matter what, the interpretation of the Hitler style mustache will always be common among society. No matter what the reason a person has for wearing this style of mustache, they will always be looked upon negatively. This is proven by him actually wearing the mustache himself. It truely shows the massive impact the symbolism of the mustache really has.