Drawing from the "Tarot" The Muse Thalia 

In this drawing by Albrecht Durer, we see the Muse Thalia, her figure drawn with ink, her head turned to the left, gazing upwards. She is holding an instrument, a symbol of music and harmony, evoking the classical world. This instrument, though unique in its form, is reminiscent of the lyre of Apollo, seen across countless Roman frescos and Renaissance paintings. It speaks to the power of music to elevate the soul, a concept echoing through the ages. Consider, for example, how Orpheus, with his lyre, charmed even the gods of the underworld, a testament to music's profound impact. Here, Thalia's gentle pose contrasts with the dynamic, almost frenzied depictions of musical ecstasy we often see. The image resonates with a quiet hope, a reminder of the enduring power of artistic expression to inspire and console. The Muse's gaze directed heavenward stirs a sense of yearning, a collective memory of harmony and hope. This simple drawing encapsulates a complex web of cultural and emotional associations, passed down through generations, shifting in meaning yet always retaining a core of human aspiration.