Book XXIII.44-45. Battle of Nola {Tertiae Decadis Liber Tertius p. CXX}; Same woodcut used for Book XXV.20. Romans trick people of Tower of Galeaga to receive Damippus {Tertiae Decadis Liber Quintus p. CXXXIV verso} 1493

Editor: This woodcut print, "Book XXIII.44-45. Battle of Nola," depicts a scene of warfare, seemingly chaotic and violent, but also somewhat... theatrical? What can you tell me about its context? Curator: The reuse of this block to represent different events speaks volumes about the construction of historical narratives. Consider how this image, regardless of its accuracy, shapes perceptions of Roman military tactics and their interactions with other cultures. Does this commodification of imagery influence our understanding of power dynamics? Editor: So, the print's meaning isn't necessarily tied to the specific battle it depicts? Curator: Precisely. It’s about how visual culture perpetuates certain perspectives. Perhaps the artist was interested in the idea of conflict rather than documenting a specific truth. Editor: That's fascinating. Thanks for the insight!