Masturbating Man

 from Andrew Omondi

What is the true story of this man from Pompeii, whose photograph attracted great attention as a "man masturbating" when it was published?

In 79 AD, Pompeii was buried in the volcanic ash of Mount Vesuvius. The plaster-filled body of this man who lived 2,000 years ago can be seen with his right hand close to the penis. When the photo was shared by the Pompeii Archaeological Park, it caused a stir on the internet and was dubbed the "Masturbating Man" on social media.

Along with the other victims living around Mount Vesuvius, this man was killed by a hot pyroclastic surge. The effect this heat has on the body is responsible for causing arms and limbs to flex. This effect takes place not only during impact but also post mortem, meaning the bodies continue to change position after death.

This is thought to be the reason many of the bodies—not just masturbating man—have been found in strange positions, many appearing as though they are grasping or groping parts of their body.

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