Illustration to "Tristram Shandy," Volume 4 1800 - 1850

This is William Hogarth’s engraving, “Illustration to ‘Tristram Shandy,’ Volume 4,” created in the mid-18th century as a response to Laurence Sterne's novel. Hogarth, known for his moralizing series, brings his satirical eye to this literary scene. Here, we observe a moment rich with the social and cultural dynamics of its time. The act of christening, central to societal acceptance and spiritual identity, is underway. But Hogarth subtly critiques the gendered expectations and performative aspects of such rituals. The woman looks on, while the men take center stage in this performative act. Hogarth seems to be interested in exposing the ways in which identity is not just inherited but actively constructed through social rituals. Hogarth once said, “I have endeavoured to treat my subject as a dramatic writer; my picture is my stage.” Just as the stage reveals societal facades, this illustration invites us to consider the roles we play and the identities we perform. It challenges us to reflect on the interplay between personal identity and public expectation.