Beheading (John Beaver, Roman Military Punishments, 1725) 1725 - 1779

"Beheading", or "Roman Military Punishments", was etched by William Hogarth in England around 1725. It depicts a violent execution scene, evoking the harsh realities of military discipline in Roman times. Hogarth was deeply engaged with the social and political issues of his day, and his prints often served as commentary on the moral state of English society. In this print, the artist uses visual codes, such as the brutal act of beheading, to explore themes of power, justice, and the spectacle of punishment. The image creates meaning through historical associations, referencing the power structures of the Roman Empire and inviting viewers to reflect on similar structures in their own time. By examining sources from the period, such as military manuals and legal documents, we can gain a deeper understanding of the social conditions that shaped Hogarth's work. Ultimately, the meaning of this print is contingent on its social and institutional context, highlighting the role of the historian in interpreting art.