Compare illustrations of literary and historical subjects

There are many ways to illustrate a person, place, event or story. Artists make choices about the colours, composition (the way something is arranged) and details they show in their images.

When you compare two images depicting the same subject, think about how the artists’ choices highlight different ideas or feelings.

Learn with an example

🔥Both of these images depict Tomoe Gozen, a twelfth-century Japanese onna bugeisha, or female samurai. Select the image that emphasises Tomoe Gozen’s physical strength.

Below is the image that emphasises Tomoe Gozen’s physical strength. You can tell because she is holding a large tree branch above her head for use as a weapon.

The other image also depicts Tomoe Gozen holding a weapon, but it does not seem particularly heavy or difficult to hold.

🔥Both of these images depict Baba Yaga, a mysterious woman with magical powers from Slavic folklore. Select the image that suggests that the story of Baba Yaga was a cautionary tale to prevent children from wandering in the woods.

Below is the image that suggests that the story of Baba Yaga was a cautionary tale to prevent children from wandering in the woods. You can tell because Baba Yaga has a furious look on her face and she appears to be holding a weapon as she flies through a dark and frightening forest.

The other image shows Baba Yaga standing on the ground and gesturing towards a forest. She does not appear threatening.

🔥Both of these images depict Atalanta, a fierce hunter in Greek mythology. She vowed to only marry a man who could outrun her in a race. One man, Hippomenes, tried to slow her down by distracting her with golden apples from Aphrodite. Select the image that presents Atalanta’s footrace as a lighthearted story.

Below is the image that presents Atalanta’s footrace as a lighthearted story. You can tell because the artists uses light, soft colours. The posture of both figures suggests that the race is relaxed.

The other image shows the race as a shadowy scene painted with dark colours. The posture of both figures suggests that the race is hurried and frantic.

let’s practice!