Saint George and the Dragon 1887

Editor: Here we have Joseph Smith’s "Saint George and the Dragon" at the Harvard Art Museums. It’s a really powerful image, very classical. What do you see in this piece, considering its historical context? Curator: This work stages a familiar power dynamic, but I think it's critical to consider the dragon not just as evil, but as a symbol of the 'other.' What sociopolitical narratives are at play when a figure like Saint George, a symbol of Christian Europe, conquers this mythical beast? Editor: That’s interesting. So, it’s not just good versus evil, but about cultural dominance? Curator: Precisely. It reflects a history of conquest and the suppression of indigenous beliefs and cultures. Editor: I never thought about it that way. Thanks for your insight! Curator: It’s essential to unpack these layers and see how they resonate even today.