Rape of Persephone with Pluto on horseback at right 1590 - 1607

Giuseppe Scolari created this print, "Rape of Persephone with Pluto on Horseback at Right," during the late 16th to early 17th century in Italy. It’s a period that saw a resurgence of interest in classical mythology. This piece depicts a moment of abduction and violence, reflecting early modern society's complex views on power, gender, and consent. Persephone is shown being carried away by Pluto, an act of domination that speaks to the era's patriarchal structures. Consider how this narrative might have been understood differently by men and women of the time. While the scene is mythological, its themes of force and subjugation resonate with the real-world experiences of many women then, and now. The artist's choice to represent this scene invites us to contemplate the normalization of such narratives and their impact on societal attitudes towards gender and power. How does viewing this image make you feel?