Analysis: Nurse Wounded Soldier And Child

The painting “Nurse, Wounded Soldier and Child” by, Hatherell, William was painted in 1915 during the period of the First World War. More than 25,000 US women served in Europe during this time. Unlike men, woman at this time where not allowed into combat, however, they were able to serve their country in a more “gender appropriate” way. Women were seen as delicate and unfit for combat. The woman serving in the First World War not only took care of the wounded soldiers but they also supported them, gave them food and catered to their needs. In this time period especially, a woman’s main role was to cook, clean, and to cater to the needs of her husband and child. In result of this thought, they were looked at as of being the caretakers essentially. …show more content…
The nurse is lending her arm out to the solider to support him and has her hand on the young girls back to comfort her. The expression on her face is serious yet sad but she seems mentally strong because she continues to hold her head up and care for the two who have been through trauma, disregarding her own pain that she has been though. Through these details the painting by Hatherell depicts woman as, nurturing, mentally strong, and kind. For the most part, women have always been seen as nurturing. Throughout decades woman have taken care of their children as well as catered to the needs of their husband. Not only have they given emotional support but they take care of and protect ones they love and care for. In this painting the woman is trying to comfort the sad little girl by resting her hand on her shoulder. When one is upset and it’s hard to take their pain away a simple hand on the shoulder or hug and can mean so much. The woman’s hand on the young girls shoulder symbolizes her sympathy and care for the girl as if she is trying to tell …show more content…
When one thinks about the personality of a woman they typically think of someone who is delicate and peaceful which coincides with being kind. The woman is showing her kindness by taking care of the young girl and soldier. Her outfit not only symbolizes strength but it also represents kindness. The Red Cross association did a lot of humanitarian work and because the woman is a Red Cross nurse, one can assume that she is a nice person because she is helping others. Her outfit isn’t the only thing that makes her seem nice. The way the woman puts her hand on the small Childs shoulder is seen as her trying to comfort her in this time of disaster. It’s to be said that trying to comfort someone in their time of need is a nice and noble thing to do. Her status of work and her behavior ultimately show that she is a nice person and her kindness is