Alexander's death 

Simon Fokke created this drawing of 'Alexander's Death' in the eighteenth century. It depicts the final moments of Alexander the Great, surrounded by his concerned generals. We see a composition that reflects the cultural fascination with classical history during the Enlightenment. Alexander was a popular figure who embodied military genius, ambition, and the spread of Greek culture, which made him an inspirational subject for artists and writers. Fokke worked in the Netherlands during a time of great social and political change, as the Dutch Republic was undergoing a period of economic decline. In the context of the growing artistic institutions, historical paintings like this are relevant to the question of what a public role of art should be. Fokke’s drawing might also be read as a commentary on leadership and the consequences of power. To further understand this drawing, we can explore the history of Alexander the Great, examine the artistic conventions of the 18th century, and investigate the social and political context in which Fokke lived and worked. By considering these factors, we can appreciate the complex layers of meaning embedded in this work.