Death of General Wolfe 1776

Curator: Here we have William Woollett’s "Death of General Wolfe." Look closely at the copper-plate engraving. Editor: The scene is so theatrical! Wolfe is posed almost Christ-like, surrounded by mourners. The symbolism drips with a sense of noble sacrifice. Curator: Indeed. The image is heavy with allegorical meaning, tapping into the visual language of martyrdom and empire. Note the Native American figure, a symbol of the land Wolfe sought to conquer, included in the scene. Editor: It's interesting that Woollett chose printmaking. Copper engraving allowed for wider distribution, turning Wolfe's death into a reproducible, national narrative. The labor of etching those fine lines…it all served a political purpose. Curator: Consider also how Wolfe's death became a symbol of British bravery and control, despite occurring during a moment of territorial struggle. The image aims to portray Wolfe as a figure of ultimate sacrifice. Editor: It's a powerful piece, even if the means of its production aimed to reinforce a selective view of history and empire. Curator: Absolutely, the image itself is as symbolic as the historical event it portrays.