In civilizations like Ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia, men styled their beards using natural oils and clays to achieve a desired look. It was believed that the way one groomed their beard reflected their social status and identity in the community.
ancient Greece, for example, beards were seen as signs of virility, manhood and wisdom. They were cut only during a time of mourning or as a form of punishment to Spartans. The ancient Romans decided to distinguish themselves from the Greeks by being clean-shaven.
Recent archaeological discoveries show that the Vikings took great pride in their appearance and their personal grooming, and didn't just let their facial hair run wild. They are widely regarded now as having had beards which were far more manicured than we may have previously thought.
