They Don't Like it, plate nine from The Disasters of War Possibly 1810 - 1863

"They Don't Like it," plate nine from *The Disasters of War*, is an etching and aquatint by Francisco de Goya. Created during the tumultuous period of the Peninsular War, this print, with its stark imagery, reflects the deeply personal impact of conflict on the Spanish people. The scene captures the raw terror of war. A soldier abducts a woman, while another woman violently attempts to stop him. Goya’s series is unflinching in its portrayal of the atrocities committed during wartime, challenging the traditional heroic narratives of battle. He shifts the focus to the suffering of civilians, particularly women, who often become victims of sexual violence. Goya’s prints were not widely circulated during his lifetime due to their politically charged content. They serve as a poignant reminder of war’s dehumanizing effects, inviting viewers to confront uncomfortable truths about power, gender, and violence. "I saw this," Goya said, bearing witness. The emotional intensity of the print lies in its ability to evoke empathy and provoke critical reflection on the human cost of conflict.