Woman From Willendorf: A Narrative Analysis

Superior Essays
In all of its various forms and shapes, the human figure bombards the public at all times. Most products are marketed using a spokesperson. To watch television or a movie means observing a plethora of figures. That exposure increases when walking into a classroom or store. Recently, the representation of these countless figures has come into question. Is the depiction accurate? Furthermore, does it need to be accurate? How does that depiction change behavior? In particular, representation of one subject has come under fire in recent years: the female body.
In a time before written language—much less cameras make up, or other methods of altering one’s body—the human figure was shaped by evolutionary needs. Hunters required bulk muscle and
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Two sculptures, simply called “Woman and Man” were created in present-day Romania around 4500 B.C.E. The woman carries most of her weight in her full hips. The man, on the other hand, is widest in his shoulders, then tapers downward from that point. The greatest difference between this set of figures and “Woman from Willendorf” are their treatment as breathing, moving subjects. Instead of standing straight up, the unknown sculptor gave them life by posing the couple. The woman appears to be resting with her hands placed on one knee, and the man sits in a position that almost suggests boredom. This may be one of the first times an artist intentionally gave animation to his …show more content…
Although the Mother of God had long been a significant actor in the story of Jesus Christ, her role was relatively passive. Mary gave birth to Jesus, and then simply watched as he began performing miracles and spreading Christianity. Slowly but surely, Mary was given a more substantial role in Christian art. Michelangelo portrayed her as a heroine in his “Pieta”, created in 1500 C.E. She is seen supporting the body of her crucified son, not a tear on her face. This is a far cry from earlier depictions of Mary collapsing at his

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