St. Paul Shaking off the Viper n.d.

Benjamin West made this pen and brown ink drawing called 'St. Paul Shaking off the Viper,' sometime between 1738 and 1820. West, an American-born artist who found success in England, often depicted scenes from the Bible. Here, West illustrates a moment of divine protection from the Acts of the Apostles. Paul is unharmed after being bitten by a venomous snake, a testament to his faith and divine purpose. The drawing reflects the religious fervor of the 18th century, when personal piety and missionary work were emphasized. Think about the cultural context of this work and the rise of Protestantism. Consider how stories like this one reinforced ideas about righteousness, divine favor, and colonial power. It can be easy to forget that these depictions of Biblical events also served to support and encourage certain social and political agendas. 'St. Paul Shaking off the Viper' invites us to consider the intersection of faith, identity, and power in art. How do we navigate the complex ways in which religious narratives have been used to shape cultural values and political landscapes?