University LibraryPrint Collection

Title:

Hercules Strangling the Nemean Lion exhibition label

Narrative 1

Narrative:

Hans Sebald Beham was a prolific artist well known for depicting peasant life and scenes from classical mythology. The Nemean lion is a resilient and vicious beast that lured women and warriors into its cave before feasting on their bones. Hercules, known for his incredible strength and bravery, set out to conquer the Nemean lion for his first of twelve tasks set by King Eurystheus. After discovering that its golden fur was impervious to any weapon or arrow, Hercules uses his immense strength to strangle the beast to death. With covert eroticism, the robust nude figure of Hercules accords him with superhuman strength personifying him as a courageous and powerful hero.

Authors:

von Westernhagen, Vanessa

Onrust, Milenne

Matheson, Tanya

Marriott, Vinaya

Bradley, Ellen

Type:

Student exhibition

Objects:

Hercules Strangling the Nemean Lion