Why did women in the Middle Ages desire flaxen hair?

The desire for flaxen hair among women in the Middle Ages can be closely linked to the cultural and artistic representations of that time. Blonde hair was often associated with purity, divinity, and beauty, largely influenced by religious and artistic depictions. Angels, typically portrayed as beings of light and virtue, were often shown with blonde hair. This iconography contributed to a cultural perception that blonde hair was desirable, as it was linked to positive qualities such as grace and favor in the eyes of God.

The other options suggest different motivations that may not fully capture the broader cultural significance of blonde hair during the Middle Ages. While youthfulness, trends among noblewomen, and social status were all factors affecting beauty standards and personal grooming at the time, the strong association of flaxen hair with angelic beings provides a compelling reason for its desirability. This aesthetic preference reflects both the spiritual and social ideals prevalent in society, making it a pivotal reason for the aspiration towards flaxen tresses.