Christian in the Valley of Humiliation c. 19th century

Curator: This is George Greatbach's "Christian in the Valley of Humiliation." Greatbach was active in the 19th century. Editor: The composition feels so staged, a bit theatrical, but there's an undeniable emotional charge to it. Curator: Absolutely, and the Valley of Humiliation is a key location in John Bunyan’s "Pilgrim’s Progress." It's a symbolic space. Editor: Symbolically, the knight’s armor offers outward protection, but vulnerability is suggested through the female figures clinging to him. It is a very gendered image. Curator: The figures represent aspects of temptation and earthly attachment that Christian must overcome on his journey. It really speaks to the power of narrative illustration. Editor: It also reflects the social dynamics of that period, suggesting the roles men and women were expected to play. I wonder how audiences then interpreted this visual representation of inner struggle. Curator: It certainly provided an idealised vision of morality and faith. Food for thought! Editor: Indeed, I will have to read Bunyan's work again.