Holberg, Erasmus Montanus, IV, 2 1820 - 1887

Johan Frederik Rosenstand created this print, Holberg, Erasmus Montanus, IV, 2, which captures a scene from Ludvig Holberg’s satirical play. Rosenstand was working during a period of significant social and political change in Denmark, including the rise of nationalism and the push for democratic reforms. The play, written in the 18th century, critiques social climbing and intellectual arrogance through the character of Rasmus Berg, who, after attending university, returns to his rural village and insists on being called Erasmus Montanus, flaunting his supposed intellectual superiority. This scene encapsulates tensions between rural and urban identities, education and social class. The character's alienation from his community speaks to the personal cost of ambition and the potential for education to create divides. It's a potent reminder of how societal expectations and the pursuit of knowledge can impact our sense of belonging and self-worth.