Hercules at the cross-roads, he is seated at the right, to the left are female personifications of Virtue and Vice 1547 - 1587

Adamo Scultori created this engraving, "Hercules at the Crossroads," in the 16th century, a period marked by the Renaissance's revival of classical themes. Here, we see Hercules, the paragon of masculine strength, contemplating a choice between Virtue and Vice, represented by the two female figures. This allegory taps into the era's preoccupation with moral decision-making and the path to virtuous life. Consider how the female figures embody the cultural expectations of women during this time. One is modestly dressed, pointing upwards, while the other is more alluring, gesturing towards earthly delights. The print's composition invites us to reflect on the internal conflicts we face when choosing between different paths in life. It is a meditation on the tension between immediate gratification and long-term fulfillment. The artist draws on the visual language of classical mythology to explore timeless questions about human nature and moral responsibility.