Illustration from Adelphi, The Brothers c. 16th century

Editor: Here we have an illustration from "Adelphi, The Brothers," an anonymous work in the Harvard Art Museums. It has such a theatrical feel to it, almost like a stage setting. What's your take? Curator: It's curious, isn't it? This woodcut style really emphasizes the narrative, almost like a comic strip panel from a medieval morality play. The rigid lines contrast so sharply with the human drama unfolding. I wonder about the artist’s intentions. What does the prone figure suggest to you? Editor: I hadn't really focused on that figure, but now I’m wondering if it’s a symbol of some sort, maybe representing a fallen character? Curator: Precisely! Art invites us to be detectives, piecing together clues and narratives. It's a journey of shared discovery. Editor: I'll definitely look at these older works with fresh eyes from now on.