Nolan Wimsatt

 This painting is by Carvaggio, it’s one of his most famous paintings.  It’s hung in the Pinacoteca in the Vatican.  The painting is of Jesus being laid in his tomb by his followers; Nicodemus, John, Mary Magdaline, Mary of Cleophas, and his mother, Mary.

 What is your initial reaction to the painting?  What is the tone/mood of the painting?  How do you think it appeals to Ethos, Logos, and Pathos?  What do you think is the effect of the expressions conveyed by the people around Jesus?  What do you think is left out of the painting?

 I’ve always loved this painting, but when I first saw it I immediately was drawn in by the use of color and the manipulation of light that is used. The expressions on their faces really set an emotion for the viewer. This painting is also a mural so it is designed to make you feel like you’re standing in the grave that Jesus is being placed in.

 Tone: I think the tone that Carvaggio put into this painting is mournful, however I believe in a way he created this painting to show the grief that was caused by his own, and all of our sins.  Mood: As the audience, I felt taken aback and saddened by such strong emotion that came pouring out of this painting.

 Ethos: I think this painting obviously appeals to Ethos because of the fact that Jesus had been crucified.  Pathos: I think it appeals to Pathos because (if you’re a religious person) if you look at Nicodemus you feel as if he’s staring at you and wanting you to take responsibility for Jesus’ sacrifice. The grieving faces of the others also creates a sense of grief with the audience.

 As I said, Nicodemus’ face is very solemn and I feel like he is meant to seem like he’s staring at us to acknowledge that what has happened is our fault.  Mary of Cleophas – her pose as she cries to the sky creates a very dramatic sense of hopelessness as you look at what is going on in the painting.  John and the Virgin Mary – they’re admiring Jesus, I feel like this is Carvaggio’s way of showing their faith in Jesus yet also their grief.  Mary Magdaline – She’s staring down in disappointment and regret which also adds to the depression felt by the audience.

 The nature around them is left out, I think Carvaggio’s use of the dark background helps set the mood for the painting while still showing light shining down on Jesus.  The people that put Jesus on the cross are left out, I think if the brutality of the crucifixion and the Romans were included it would give a much more morbid and disturbing feeling for the audience.

 "Favourite Paintings - Carvaggio." blogspot.com. N.p., 9 Feb Web. 29 Jan