Artistic representations of Greek and Roman mythological figures, gods, and goddesses have been part of Western art history for centuries. From the 16th through 20th centuries, many artists shifted away from biblical themes and focused on classical Greek and Roman stories for their work. The intertwining of art, literature, and music by artists and others resulted in works that gained international attention and appreciation and that are an important part of the contemporary humanities.
Patrick Hunt’s rich and detailed book analyzes 18 works of art from the 16th to 20th centuries by 13 artists. Among the works analyzed are:
Caravaggio’s Narcissus
Bernini’s Apollo and Daphne
Renoir’s Diana the Huntress
Leighton’s Return of Persephone
Waterhouse’s Pandora
Picasso’s Minotauromachy
Hunt’s work skillfully analyzes literary, mythological, historical, musical, and artistic elements of works of art showing the depth and knowledge of the artists. In so doing, he demonstrates the importance and relevance of the masterpieces for all who view them.
About the author:
Patrick Hunt is an art historian, archaeologist, composer, and poet. His Ph.D. is in Archaeology from the Institute of Archaeology, UCL, (University of London). He has been teaching at Stanford University since 1993 and is a National Geographic Explorer. He is the author of 24 books, including Caravaggio; Rembrandt: His Life in Art; Myth and Art in Ekphrasis; Puer Natus Est: Art of Christmas; Renaissance Visions: Myth and Art; and Greek Musings: Memories and Fables.
