In the Midst of Life We Are in Death
Description/Abstract/Artist Statement
This paper argues that Peter Bruegel the Elder’s The Peasant and the Birdnester functions as a satirical memento mori. Although scholars have identified the painting as a memento mori, they neglect to address the satirical qualities, which is the primary and most important vehicle through which Bruegel drives his message. The Peasant urges the viewer to laugh with him, as the Nest Robber is unaware of his impending death. Instead we laugh at them both, because the Peasant is also about to die. Suddenly we realize that we too are just one step from our own demise.
Faculty Advisor/Mentor
Dr. Anne Muraoka
Presentation Type
Oral Presentation
Disciplines
European History | Other History of Art, Architecture, and Archaeology
Session Title
Art History 3
Location
Learning Commons @ Perry Library Conference Room 1306
Start Date
2-2-2019 11:30 AM
End Date
2-2-2019 12:30 PM
In the Midst of Life We Are in Death
Learning Commons @ Perry Library Conference Room 1306
This paper argues that Peter Bruegel the Elder’s The Peasant and the Birdnester functions as a satirical memento mori. Although scholars have identified the painting as a memento mori, they neglect to address the satirical qualities, which is the primary and most important vehicle through which Bruegel drives his message. The Peasant urges the viewer to laugh with him, as the Nest Robber is unaware of his impending death. Instead we laugh at them both, because the Peasant is also about to die. Suddenly we realize that we too are just one step from our own demise.