Dying Hercules 1812

Samuel Morse's "Dying Hercules" (1812) is a neoclassical painting that depicts the legendary Greek hero in his final moments. The painting shows Hercules, the son of Zeus, reclining on a rock, his body wracked with pain as he succumbs to the poisoned arrow of Nessus. Morse's interest in the human form is evident in the detailed depiction of Hercules' muscular physique and his contorted pose, which expresses the agony of his death. This painting showcases the artist's early interest in historical and mythological subjects, a theme that would remain central to his artistic output throughout his career.