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Cartoon, The Valley of the Shadow of Death
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Cartoon, The Valley of the Shadow of Death
Cartoon, The Valley of the Shadow of Death, by James Gillray. Depicting Napoleon (ironically in the role of John Bunyan's pilgrim, Christian) having to confront an array of problems, such as a Roman meteor, and aggression from Britain, Turkey, Sicily, Spain, Portugal, Holland, America, Germany, Prussia and Russia. This cartoon was inspired by news of Sir Arthur Wellesleys victory over Napoleon's forces in Portugal (21 August 1808). Date: 1808
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Media ID 32223810
© The Sharp Illustration Collecti
1800s 1808 Aggression Austria Bear Bunyan Comment Confront Confrontation Confronting Criticism Ditch Donkey Eagle Frogs Gillray Harsh Holland Lightning Lion Meteor Moon Napoleon Papal Pilgrim Portugal Problems Progress Prussia Rats Satire Satirical Shadow Sicily Snake Styx Trouble Victory
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EDITORS COMMENTS
The Valley of the Shadow of Death, a satirical cartoon by James Gillray, captures the tumultuous political landscape of 1808 with biting commentary and clever imagery. In this print, Napoleon is depicted as John Bunyan's pilgrim Christian, facing a daunting array of obstacles on his journey. From a Roman meteor to aggression from multiple nations including Britain, Turkey, Sicily, Spain, Portugal, Holland, America, Germany, Prussia and Russia - Napoleon is surrounded by trouble at every turn.
Inspired by news of Sir Arthur Wellesley's victory over Napoleon's forces in Portugal in August 1808, Gillray uses symbolism such as a donkey (representing stubbornness), lion (symbolizing strength), bear (depicting aggression), dog (signifying loyalty), frogs and rats (representing chaos) among other elements to convey the challenges faced by Napoleon during this time.
This cartoon serves as a harsh critique of Napoleon's leadership and military campaigns while also highlighting the complexities of international relations during this period. The intricate details and clever references make this print not only visually engaging but also intellectually stimulating for those who delve into its layers of meaning.
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