Shall I crucify 

James Tissot painted "Shall I Crucify?" at the end of the 19th century, a period marked by significant shifts in religious and social norms. Tissot, a French artist, spent time in the Middle East to create illustrations of the life of Christ that reflect the cultural and historical context of the Bible. In this artwork, Tissot challenges traditional interpretations of the Passion. He creates a visual narrative that invites viewers to confront questions of justice, power, and moral responsibility. The scene captures the moment when Pontius Pilate presents Jesus to the crowd, asking whether he should be crucified. The choice is left open to the crowd, and with it, the viewer. Tissot’s careful attention to detail, particularly in the depiction of the figures, invites viewers to consider the roles and motivations of those involved in this pivotal moment. The visual and emotional weight of "Shall I Crucify?" encourages a deep reflection on the complex interplay between personal conviction and societal pressures.