Oberon, Titania and Puck with Fairies Dancing 1786

William Blake created this watercolor painting of Oberon, Titania, and Puck with dancing fairies in England, at a time of significant social and political upheaval. Blake, who often critiqued the institutions of art, uses visual codes and cultural references to engage with the social structures of his time. His art often challenged the conservative norms of British society. In this painting, the ethereal figures and dreamlike setting evoke a sense of otherworldly escape, which was a common theme in Romantic art. Yet, Blake’s rendering goes beyond mere escapism. To truly understand Blake’s work, the historian must delve into his poetry, engravings, and illuminated books. Research into his social and intellectual circles, including his relationship with radical thinkers, provides invaluable context. The meaning of art is always contingent on its social and institutional context.