Sieglinde prepares Hunding’s draught for the night 1910

Arthur Rackham created this illustration for Richard Wagner's opera "Die Walküre." Rackham, an English book illustrator, gained prominence during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, a period marked by significant social and cultural shifts. The image presents Sieglinde in a domestic setting. Here, the artist drew inspiration from the aesthetic and thematic elements of the Arts and Crafts movement, embracing romanticism and folklore. Wagner's operas, rooted in Germanic mythology, tapped into a growing interest in national identity and cultural heritage. Rackham’s illustrations were used to further romanticize the opera as part of German heritage. Sieglinde's act of preparing the draught and her wary expression imply a critique of oppressive relationships and gender dynamics. Her character challenges the conventions of her time. Understanding the socio-political context of Rackham's era allows us to appreciate the illustration as a reflection of its time. We can examine manifestos, critiques, and contemporary publications. This will provide a more complete understanding of the artwork's historical significance.