[Illustration: FIG. 18 BROAD FACE] The above mentioned several types or classes of faces have, of course, innumerable variations and combinations, but a careful study of these several types will give one the general key to all faces. It is well to obtain a side view, as well as a full-face view, of the face one wishes to study. [Illustration: FIG. 19 NARROW FACE] In studying faces, not only the general shape of the face must be observed, but also the various features thereof, as for instance: the chin; the mouth; the nose; the eyes; the ears; etc. These features form the subject of the following chapters. CHAPTER XVII CHINS AND MOUTHS Physiognomists regard the chin as an important feature to be considered in the study of faces as the outer form of character. The following are the principal points of the "reading" of chins. In Fig. 20 we see the first point to be observed in the study of chins. The rule is to draw an imaginary perpendicular line from the point at the root of the nose, between the two eyebrows. In the normal and average type, the line touches the upper lip and chin. But we find the normal condition in but comparatively few cases, the majority manifesting a variation backward or forward. When the chin is found to recede from the line, it is interpreted as an indication of weakness, lack of stability and firmness, and a general vacillating and unstable character. When the chin projects beyond the line, it is interpreted as indicating firmness, stubborness, and a generally selfish nature, which is considered "strong" by contrast with the "weak" receding chin. When the projecting chin is _pointed_, it indicates that the strength is manifested as grasping, miserliness, etc.; while if it is _square_, it indicates Combativeness and Destructiveness as well as Acquisitiveness; and if it is _very broad and square_, it indicates the domineering, "bossy," tyrannical, self-willed character. [Illustration: FIG. 20 CHIN STUDY] The above points regarding the chin must always be taken into consideration. The following points are based on the shape of the chin when in _normal position_, that is when the perpendicular line descends in a straight line from the root of the nose to the chin: The _narrow-round chin_ indicates _idealistic feeling_ not manifesting in decided action. These people have high desires, longings, and aspiration, but lack the will to act upon the same. The _narrow-square chin_ indicates the idealistic nature, _accompanied by the will to act_ upon the same. The _broad-round chin_ indicates _substantial feeling_, without the will to manifest it in decided action. These people desire ordinary, plain, practical things, but lack the initiative, will and nerve to overcome obstacles to acquire them. The _broad-square chin_ indicates that the feelings are plain, practical and substantial, _with the will to back them up_.