"Will-o'-the-wisp" from The Complete Works of Béranger 1836

J. J. Grandville created this print, titled "Will-o'-the-wisp," as part of an illustrated edition of the works of French poet Béranger. Born in 1803, Grandville lived through the tumultuous years following the French Revolution. The image depicts a scene of deception and illusion: a well-dressed man, perhaps a member of the bourgeoisie, gestures towards the will-o'-the-wisp, while a figure chases after the false promise of the glowing lights. These lights, known for leading travelers astray, serve as a metaphor for the deceptive allure of political rhetoric and social climbing in post-revolutionary France. Grandville uses the imagery to critique the promises made during this time. "Will-o'-the-wisp" invites us to reflect on the ways in which we are all susceptible to chasing illusions, whether in our personal lives or in the broader social and political sphere. The print captures a sense of disillusionment. It reminds us of the importance of critical thinking in navigating the complexities of the modern world.