Death of Archbishop Sharp c. 19th century

Editor: Here we have "Death of Archbishop Sharp," by James Stewart. It looks like a chaotic scene, a clash between the earthly and the divine. What's your take on it? Curator: It’s like a stage, isn’t it? See how Stewart has arranged the figures, the assassin, the Archbishop…almost theatrical, wouldn't you say? It speaks of religious and political fervor of the time. What do you think the dog represents? Editor: Perhaps loyalty, betrayed? I hadn't considered the staging. I was too focused on the drama! Curator: Yes, the dog might be loyalty, but Stewart is also asking us to consider what loyalty to belief can drive us to do. Food for thought, eh?