Genoveva c. 1889 - 1906

This illustrated print titled 'Genoveva,' was created by the successors of Charles Burckhardt. It presents a series of images depicting the life of Genoveva, a medieval figure often associated with themes of unjust accusation, exile, and ultimate vindication. The narrative unfolds through a series of framed vignettes, reminiscent of a storyboard, a popular form of disseminating stories to a wide audience during a time of increasing literacy. The tale of Genoveva, a woman wrongly accused of infidelity, speaks to the historical experiences of women whose reputations and social standing were vulnerable to slander and patriarchal control. We witness her being driven into the wilderness, where she is forced to survive with her child, relying on the kindness of animals and the sheer force of her maternal resilience. This visual narrative serves as both a cautionary tale and a testament to the strength and endurance of a woman facing adversity, reflecting broader societal attitudes towards female virtue, persecution, and redemption.