The Oath of the Horaitii painting is an oil on canvas that is located in Musée du Louvre. This painting is powerful showing the pride and self sacrifice of these three men. This painting illustrates the story of two tribes that sent their three finest men to do battle in place of entire countries going to war. The victor of this smaller battle would win the battle for their country. These men are from Rome and are pledging their swords and loyalty to their country. We see the women mourning the loss of their family off to the side. David stirs the emotions of the viewer attempting to create a sense of pride in country instead of self. The painting is divided into three by roman arches. He paints light that passes across the surface of the soldiers creating a contrast between the linear space. There is movement in the drapery, allowing the viewer to see how the bodies are moving.…show more content… This painting illustrates the story of the Freedom Fighters who rebelled against the French invasion of Spain. We are shown the last moments of these men as they are slaughtered by the French. Goya illustrates man's ability to be malignant to each other when he references Christianity. This reference is seen clearly when the viewer glimpses at the man about to be shot. He holds his arms out as if to be crucified in the same way Jesus was. The painting is Goya's way of telling the world what monsters Napoleon and his French army are. The men are standing in front of a hill facing the firing squad. A pile of dead bodies spilling blood at their feet. Men praying to God before death for mercy, none of which is shown by the French. The light focuses on the man with his arms stretched wide inviting the viewer to fully understand the implications of the cruelty of man. Goya allows us to see his short, harsh brush strokes. This is another example of the onslaught of emotions Goya felt while painting this
