Medieval Monsters as Propaganda

July 4, 2018 7:55 PM

How medieval artists used monsters as propaganda When someone does something that so viciously lacks in humanity, we call them a monster. Through action or belief, they have removed themselves from human decency, and become something grotesque. But society can also turn people into monsters through the way they’re depicted and treated.

A link to the Morgan Library for this exhibition which has dates (until 23 Sep 2018) and special corollary programs: Morgan Lib Monsters

posted by MovableBookLady (4 comments total)

The siren is definitely overdoing a) musical instruments and b) wings. Possibly victims, too, although horrid abominations’ gotta eat.
posted by GenjiandProust at 5:04 AM on July 5, 2018

MONK #1: ugh sorry to bother you again
MONK #2: no no its fine
this is what i’m here for
what is it
MONK #1: what part of a goat is a snail again
like the front end or the back end
MONK #2: what part do you feel like should be the snail part
MONK #1: the back part?
MONK #2: you shouldnt doubt yourself
you know more about goats than you give yourself credit for
posted by um at 5:46 AM on July 5, 2018 [8 favorites]

I went to see this on Tuesday and was very struck at just how long depictions of 'otherness' have been illustrated in western literature. The beasts were cool, but it was the depictions of people as monstrous that really hit home.

The handwriting exhibit was really interesting too.

And there is AC.
posted by sedimentary_deer at 9:07 AM on July 5, 2018 [1 favorite]

Control f "snails" had no results?! I guess they don't count as monsters but I was hoping that would get a mention.
posted by Nec_variat_lux_fracta_colorem at 6:27 AM on July 6, 2018