Illustration til "Holger Danske" i H.C. Andersen, "Eventyr og Historier", Bind 2 1870 - 1873

This illustration for Hans Christian Andersen's "Holger Danske" was created by H.P. Hansen in the 19th century, a time when national identity was being actively constructed in Denmark. The image depicts Holger Danske, a legendary figure, armored and imposing, stepping into a domestic scene. This juxtaposition speaks volumes about the era's construction of masculinity and national pride. While Holger represents heroic ideals, the woman at the table embodies domesticity, subtly reinforcing traditional gender roles. The children, seemingly caught between these worlds, represent the future, inheriting both the heroic past and the domestic present. Hansen’s work, while illustrating a beloved tale, also reflects the societal norms of his time. It invites us to consider how national myths are intertwined with everyday life, shaping our understanding of who we are and where we belong. The emotional resonance of this image lies in its quiet depiction of how grand narratives intersect with personal lives.