Fotoreproductie van een getekend portret van Theodor Körner uit 1809 c. 1860 - 1875

This is a photogravure reproduction of a drawn portrait of Theodor Körner, dating back to 1809 and created by an anonymous artist. Körner, a celebrated German poet and soldier, is portrayed with a resolute gaze and folded arms. The image resonates with the fervor of German nationalism during the Napoleonic era. Körner, a volunteer in the Lützow Free Corps, became a martyr for German liberation, embodying patriotic sacrifice. It’s impossible not to see how historical and cultural contexts shaped the perception of Körner, who became a symbol of national identity. His image reflects the romantic idealism of the era, a yearning for freedom, and a collective identity. How does Körner's portrayal—strong and unwavering—play into the narratives of masculinity and heroism prevalent at the time? It certainly invites us to reflect on how societies construct their heroes, and what ideals they embody.