Hannibal, whilst even yet a Child, swears Eternal Hatred to the Romans 

Curator: Well, this is a strikingly theatrical depiction! It reminds me of a stage play. Editor: That’s because it captures such a dramatic moment! Here we have John Leech’s drawing, "Hannibal, whilst even yet a Child, swears Eternal Hatred to the Romans." Curator: Oh, certainly, the little boy with the fist raised high. One does wonder about the psychological impact of such an intense vow at such a tender age. It speaks volumes about the perpetuation of historical animosity. Editor: Indeed, and the politics of memory! The image really plays on a fascination with history, and with portraying powerful, often romanticised, historical events for contemporary audiences. Curator: Look at the detail given to the costuming, for example. It all contributes to an exaggerated vision of power, reflecting ideas of Roman society viewed through the lens of British society in the 1800s. Notice the figures behind Hannibal and his father – their faces betray a mix of concern, approval, and possibly fear? It is hard to determine without understanding their role in this narrative scene. Editor: Precisely. And what do we make of Leech's technique? The work relies heavily on caricature – even grotesquerie. Take the officiating priest for instance. Or look at the exaggerated features on the elder Hannibal, which verge on cartoonish. What purpose do you think it served? Curator: It is possible that the drawing style serves to make it relatable to a contemporary audience. We see familiar types represented within an ancient scenario. It almost feels like the artist is commenting on the idea of how easily our history becomes exaggerated propaganda. Editor: It’s interesting how this caricature is tied up with nationalism and political rhetoric, making the piece both humorous and… subtly critical? Curator: Yes, I appreciate how Leech has layers meaning, presenting us with powerful historical iconography filtered through both cultural memory and, to some extent, satirical awareness. Editor: Agreed. The weight of historical moment, repackaged for a contemporary world that’s always playing with representations of power, in both visual terms and national identity. It offers us much to think about even now.