Death of Sir Philip Sidney 18th-19th century

Editor: This is James Stow's "Death of Sir Philip Sidney." It's... intense. The light and shadow create a really dramatic mood. What do you make of it? Curator: It's interesting, isn’t it? The artist is working in that very theatrical, almost operatic style popular at the time. It’s as if he wants us to feel like we are right there witnessing a moment of intense pathos. Editor: Pathos? Curator: Yes, that feeling of deep sorrow and pity. You see it in Sidney's noble gesture of offering water to another wounded soldier, even as he himself is dying. The scene is charged with emotion. It’s a morality play on canvas, isn't it? Editor: I see it now. Thanks! Curator: My pleasure! Art history is just a good conversation.