Episode 16: Saint Bernardino before Pope Martin V; Episode 17: An ecumenical council meets in Florence; Episode 18: Saint Bernardino objects to the "Trium" of citizens, episcopates, and senators, from "The Life of Saint Bernardino of Siena" 1610 - 1639

This print, made by Bernardino Capitelli in the 17th century, depicts scenes from the life of Saint Bernardino of Siena. The visual language of power and reverence is prominent. We see Pope Martin V, enthroned and surrounded by figures of authority, contrasted by the humble gestures of Saint Bernardino. The act of kneeling, as displayed by the saint, is a motif deeply embedded in religious and secular traditions. Consider its evolution from ancient Roman supplication rituals to medieval displays of fealty. Even today, the act carries a weight of respect, submission, and a plea for grace, resonating in our collective memory. These gestures are not merely historical; they tap into a primal understanding of hierarchy and respect. The subconscious impact of such imagery is profound, evoking feelings tied to our earliest experiences with authority. The recurring visual motifs connect us to past cultural values, demonstrating how symbols persist, transform, and continually shape our understanding of the world.