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Wearing glasses has long been associated with people who are well educated and highly cultured, but is this really the case? It might be a surprise to find out that this assumption is partly correct had it not been for one very important fact.
Would it be no surprise that many of the people who come to mind when you mention smart and talented and also wear round-framed glasses?
The very first eyeglasses that were meant to correct poor eyesight were very simple magnifying lenses that were attached to wireframes. These frames supported each lens that bridged the nose. The first eyeglasses were made with rounded frames that appeared as far back as the late 1300s, in Italy. These glasses were custom-made for those during the pre-Renaissance period and were first utilized by monks for their detailed scribing work.
Later, it was more common for scholars would wear round frame glasses since these ultimately became a symbol of knowledge and prosperity. Because they were custom-made by glassblowers, the magnification ability was also quite expensive at that time, making round glasses a luxury item that was often only available for the wealthy class to afford. This is another reason why round glasses are associated with intelligent and rich people.
As time progressed it was easier and cheaper to produce round-framed glasses as the Pince-nez style was popular well into the 14th Century up until the late 1800s. This is when modern versions were designed for being supported over the ears. Although rounded lenses would soon start to evolve into more elaborate shapes, the overall simplicity of rounded lenses was considered universally popular and appealing by the general population.
It didn't take too long to see a growing trend that admired round frame glasses for their role as a status symbol of what they represent. Many historical figures who are highly admired had also worn round glasses. These include Benjamin Franklin and Mahatma Gandhi, yet Winston Churchill and Japanese Prime Minister Tojo Hideki made these round glasses more famous.
When most people think of round frame glasses, it's not hard to immediately think of John Lennon, Elton John, Ozzy Ozbourne, and Janis Joplin. Even the biggest influencers that include Andy Warhol or Steve Jobs are reminders that one simple idea can be worth millions. Perhaps this is why so many successful people who are well-spoken and passionate about their careers choose to wear rounded glasses.
Yet it doesn't specifically matter if round glasses are meant for prescription needs or not, all of the most successful people mentioned here- needed them for daily corrective vision. And though many rounded glasses are totally colorless, recent trends in fashion are proving that colored and tinted glass is just as attractive. But the real allure of any rounded frame is the style that fits the personality.
It might sound awkward, but not everyone is suited for wearing round glasses. This has been suggested by best-selling author J.K. Rowling for her most beloved character Harry Potter. Nearly everyone knows that Harry Potter is a little boy who is destined for great things from an early age. This further cemented a new concept for inspiring heroes who wear round frame glasses. It was also no surprise that her book series inspired millions to once again pick up a book and learn to read and write. That is the sheer power of what round framed glasses can achieve!