Illustration to Book of Job 

This is one of William Blake’s illustrations for the Book of Job, part of a series completed between 1823 and 1826 in England. Blake’s visionary images offer a powerful interpretation of the biblical story, and delve into questions of morality, suffering, and divine justice. This particular illustration depicts Job lying prostrate, tormented by Satan, while a stern, bearded God hovers above with tablets of law. Blake uses symbolic imagery and dramatic composition to convey Job’s spiritual crisis. The fiery setting reflects the torment Job experiences, with figures writhing in agony at the bottom. What makes this image so interesting is that it challenges conventional religious authority. Blake was deeply critical of the Church of England. Through careful analysis of Blake’s visual language, combined with historical research into his religious and philosophical beliefs, we can understand how his art served as a form of social and institutional critique, questioning the established norms of his time.