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Classical Mythology, 7th Edition - obinfonet: dia logou

Classical Mythology, 7th Edition - obinfonet: dia logou

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524 THE GREEK SAGAS: GREEK LOCAL LEGENDS<br />

Hercules and the Lernaean Hydra. By Gustave Moreau (1826-1898); oil on canvas, 1869-1876,<br />

70V2 x 6OV4 in. Moreau, who painted several of Hercules' Labors, devoted enormous effort to<br />

this painting. Hercules is young and of normal human size and anatomy. He stands in the attitude<br />

(legs reversed) of the Apollo Belvedere (p. 229), with his attributes of lionskin, bow (also<br />

Apollo's weapon), and club. The seven-headed Hydra towers over the hero, and in front of<br />

it lie the remains of its victims. The rocky cliffs heighten the drama, a suitable setting for the<br />

fearless hero. The conquest of the Hydra had long been a parable for the triumph of good government<br />

over disorder, but Moreau focuses on the moral stature of the hero rather than on political<br />

allegory. (Chicago, Art Institute.)

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