Red Riding Hood 1864

Sir John Everett Millais painted this oil on canvas, entitled 'Red Riding Hood,' sometime in the mid-19th century. Here we see the artist engaging with the established genre of history painting, but with a twist. Instead of depicting grand historical events, Millais focuses on a popular folk tale, subtly commenting on the social structures of his time. Consider the symbolism of the color red, traditionally associated with danger and passion, enveloping the innocent figure of a young girl. Millais, a key figure in the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood, often drew inspiration from literary sources. His choice of 'Red Riding Hood' reflects the Victorian era's fascination with morality tales and the education of women. Was Millais making a point about the social vulnerability of young women? Or was he using the imagery to comment on the politics of the art world? Delving into the artist's biography, studying Victorian social history, and examining other Pre-Raphaelite works can offer additional insights. Ultimately, the meaning of art is contingent on its social and institutional context.