September - "Massacre of St. Bartholomew" from George Cruikshank's Steel Etchings to The Comic Almanacks: 1835-1853 (top left) c. 1841 - 1880

Editor: Here we have George Cruikshank's "September - 'Massacre of St. Bartholomew'", one of his steel etchings from The Comic Almanacks. The violence depicted, even in this small format, feels quite intense. What historical contexts are at play in this image? Curator: Indeed. The etching refers to the St. Bartholomew's Day Massacre of 1572, a horrific event in the French Wars of Religion. But Cruikshank made this print in the 19th century, correct? We should consider how Victorians perceived this historical event. Were they simply remembering the past, or was Cruikshank commenting on contemporary societal issues? Editor: That's interesting. So, the "comic" aspect of the Almanack provides a lens for broader social critique? Curator: Precisely! Consider the role of illustrated news and satirical prints in shaping public opinion during this time. How might a comic rendering of such a grim historical event influence public understanding or, perhaps, desensitize viewers to religious persecution? Editor: I guess I had assumed it was purely historical. Seeing it as commentary on religious and political strife in Victorian England, makes it much more layered and challenging. Curator: It pushes us to think about the ways historical narratives can be mobilized and reshaped for contemporary purposes. It shows the museum’s complex public role in how imagery around the world shapes and reflects diverse viewpoints. Editor: It's fascinating how this piece can bridge historical trauma with contemporary anxieties. Thanks, this gives me a lot to consider! Curator: My pleasure, I learned as well.