Phaedra Rejecting the Embraces of Theseus 1800

Anne-Louis Girodet's 1800 artwork, *Phaedra Rejecting the Embraces of Theseus*, depicts a scene from the Greek myth of Phaedra, wife of Theseus, who falls in love with her stepson, Hippolytus. The drawing showcases the moment Phaedra rejects Theseus' advances, creating a dramatic tension through the characters' gestures and facial expressions. This work exemplifies Girodet's neoclassical style, characterized by its use of line, clear forms, and emphasis on historical themes. *Phaedra Rejecting the Embraces of Theseus* is an example of Girodet's interest in portraying complex emotional states and psychological depth within a classical context.