When Day Breaks, We Must Go 18th-19th century

Editor: Here we have Francisco Goya's print, "When Day Breaks, We Must Go." The figures seem grotesque, almost like a fever dream. What historical context informs this disturbing image? Curator: Goya lived through immense social upheaval. Consider how the Enlightenment's emphasis on reason was challenged by the realities of war and political corruption. Doesn’t this print capture the anxieties of a society grappling with disillusionment? Editor: That makes sense. The figures do seem to represent the marginalized, or perhaps the monstrous, products of a crumbling social order. I hadn’t considered the Enlightenment's influence. Curator: Exactly. Goya uses his art as a public mirror, reflecting the darkness he observed. It makes you wonder about the role of art as social commentary, doesn’t it? Editor: Absolutely. I’ll definitely think about the broader historical forces when analyzing this work moving forward. Thanks!