Life of Goya
With the coronation of the two Catholic rulers, Ferdinand and Isabella in 1479, the country of Spain slowly began to unite. Piece by piece, the King and Queen recaptured once lost lands and built their empire. In 1516 Carlos V rose to power, establishing the Hapsburg reign. The Hapsburg ruled for nearly two hundred years until the death of Charles II. With him died a Golden Age for Spain that the Catholic rulers established. Spain fell into a time of mass poverty, disorganization, and lackadaisical rule. One force that was structured in Spain was the church. Catholicism was not only a religion in Spain but also a significant influence in society. At the time, however, it did little to improve the conditions. Classes were heavily lopsided. The middle class was almost non-existent, and the upper class monopolized agricultural land. The provinces of Aragon, La Mancha, and Castile were where most of the poverty and depression was concentrated. Costal cities like Cadiz and Madrid were where prosperity existed. In the midst of commencing political and aristocratic turmoil, was born one of the most talented and patriotically concerned artists Spain has ever seen. On March 30, 1745 in the rural town of Fuend
Somewhat of a different style and theme is showed in The Shooting on Principe Pio Mountain. A more free brush technique is used here and the faces and figures in the picture are more abstract, less detailed. The shooters are anonymous and they doggedly obey orders by killing the suspects lined up in front of them. In the center of the painting is a Spanish commoner who has his arms raised and his face is that of despair, horror, and hopelessness. This event (one of many that were similar) was a significant moment in Spanish history. French firing squads patrolled through Spain as guerrillas (little wars) broke out over the land. Goya painted the picture six years later, and had mixed feelings about it. His love for Spain is shown in all of his work, however he was an admirer of the French Enlightenment. This painting shows a difference and gradual change in Goya's style. The brush strokes are much more scratchy and not as delicate as Goya could be considered one of the most talented artists of his time and without question he is. However what is to be merited is influence and understanding of Spain and her people. A true artist, or painter in this case, can put thoughts onto canvas forcing the observer to look beyond the jewels and ranks of royalty. They can tell a characters life story or thoughts with miniscule variations in facial and body language. Goya did these things to perfection and should be regarded as one of the great minds of Spanish culture.
Some common words found in the essay are:
Velazquez Velazquez, French Enlightenment, Martinez Goya, King Queen, Pio Mountain, Bourbon King, Maria Luisa, Spain Catholic, Cadiz Madrid, Francisco Jesuit, king queen, goya painted, catholic rulers, charles iv,
Approximate Word count = 1217
Approximate Pages = 5 (250 words per page double spaced)
|
