Den barmhjertige samaritan betaler værten 1810 - 1873

This is Wilhelm Marstrand's "The Good Samaritan Paying the Innkeeper," an ink drawing made sometime in the 19th century. Marstrand, who lived from 1810 to 1873, situates us in a biblical parable, yet one which touches on timeless questions of ethics and social responsibility. Notice the scene's quiet intimacy as the Samaritan settles the injured man’s debt, challenging conventional prejudices by offering compassion across social divides. The injured man lays prone in the left corner, whilst the Samaritan is actively taking care of him. How are we meant to engage with the story being represented? How does Marstrand portray characters who were traditionally rendered as inferior? It’s difficult to stand in front of this work and not ask yourself: What does it mean to truly care for another, especially when societal norms might dictate otherwise? How do we develop alternative narratives that uplift the stories of those in need?