Red Riding Hood: Red Riding Hood's Return c. 19th century

Editor: Here we have Edward Martin Taber's "Red Riding Hood: Red Riding Hood's Return," a delicate drawing held at the Harvard Art Museums. It shows multiple scenes, seemingly sketches for a larger narrative. How do you interpret this work in light of social or historical contexts? Curator: Considering the title and imagery, this might be read as a commentary on societal expectations surrounding women and children. The return suggests a re-entry into a patriarchal structure, where women's safety and agency are constantly negotiated. Do you see how the different scenes could represent stages of this negotiation? Editor: That's an interesting perspective. I hadn’t considered it in terms of power dynamics, but I see what you mean about negotiation. Curator: Exactly. The artist is potentially highlighting the vulnerability inherent in these roles, questioning the fairy tale's simplistic narrative and its implications for real-world experiences. Editor: This has really opened my eyes to the underlying meanings and power dynamics within seemingly innocent stories. Thanks for sharing your expertise!