Columbus and His Son c. 19th century

Editor: This is "Columbus and His Son" by Edward Goodall. The etching is quite small on the page, but it depicts a grand architectural scene. I’m curious, what do you think this image is trying to say about Columbus in the absence of a date? Curator: Given the focus on classical architecture, I'd speculate this image romanticizes Columbus, linking him to a heroic, almost mythical past. This might reflect 19th-century sentiments around exploration and colonialism, framing it as a continuation of classical ideals rather than a complex historical event. Editor: So, you're suggesting the architecture elevates Columbus and perhaps glosses over the less palatable aspects of his legacy? Curator: Exactly. The grand, timeless setting overshadows the historical Columbus, shaping public perception towards a more palatable, heroic narrative, and it would be interesting to research if the image was connected to public events. Editor: That is a helpful insight; it makes me consider the image’s role in shaping historical memory. Curator: It makes me think, too.