What a Sacrifice! 18th-19th century

Editor: This etching is titled "What a Sacrifice!" by Francisco Goya. The woman looks despondent, surrounded by grotesque figures. What symbols do you see at play here? Curator: The title itself is a loaded symbol, hinting at societal expectations and forced unions. Her averted gaze speaks volumes about lost agency. Notice how Goya uses caricature to depict the men; what does this tell us? Editor: Maybe the men represent societal pressures or the loss of individual freedom? Curator: Precisely. Goya uses visual shorthand to critique the very structures that bind her. This image taps into the collective memory of inequality and the enduring symbolism of sacrifice. It makes you think about the real weight of social expectation. Editor: It’s fascinating to see how Goya's etching uses symbols to evoke such strong emotions. Thanks for sharing! Curator: My pleasure. Reflecting on the artwork's symbolic weight has offered a richer understanding.