Cadmus and Harmonia 1877

Evelyn De Morgan rendered this depiction of Cadmus and Harmonia with oils on canvas. Note the prominent symbol of the serpent—a powerful motif that coils through the annals of art history and human consciousness. Here, the serpent, entwined around Harmonia, resonates with dual meanings. It recalls the serpent in the Garden of Eden, a symbol of temptation and forbidden knowledge. Yet, we must also remember the classical world where snakes embody healing and wisdom. Consider the Rod of Asclepius, a single serpent around a staff, still a symbol of medicine today. This duality reflects a profound ambivalence in the human psyche, where danger and salvation intertwine. The image's emotional power lies in this tension, engaging us in an ancient drama of choice and consequence. The serpent’s presence evokes a primordial fear, yet also a recognition of transformative potential. The cyclical nature of the symbol reminds us of the continuous interplay between opposing forces, constantly shaping and reshaping our understanding of the world.