The Knight of the Sun 1860

Arthur Hughes painted "The Knight of the Sun" at an unknown date, though most likely in Britain. Here we see the painter addressing social conditions through a medieval fantasy narrative. Hughes was associated with the Pre-Raphaelites who often looked to medieval subjects as a critique of modern industrial society. The painting may allude to popular medieval literature, referencing a specific story or moral lesson. One might consider how Victorian ideals of chivalry, duty, and religious faith are portrayed through this imagery. Knights in shining armor had powerful social connotations in Victorian Britain. Were such ideals being challenged? Or reinforced? To understand "The Knight of the Sun" better, we might investigate the popular literature of Victorian Britain to identify possible sources. Research into the contemporary reception of Hughes's paintings might also reveal the social values that were projected onto this kind of scene. Only through such contextual investigations can we understand the true meaning of art.