The artwork titled “Back to the thicket slunk The guilty serpent” by Gustave Doré belongs to the Romanticism art movement and is classified as an illustration. This particular piece is part of Doré’s series for “Paradise Lost,” an epic poem by John Milton.
The artwork depicts a significant and evocative scene from “Paradise Lost.” The central figure, Eve, stands contemplatively near a tree as the serpent slithers away, embodying the themes of temptation and fall from grace. The intricate details capture the lushness of the surrounding forest and the emotive expression on Eve’s face. The use of chiaroscuro enhances the composition, creating a dramatic interplay of light and shadow that adds depth and intensity to the scene. The skillful engraving showcases Doré’s mastery in portraying complex narratives and profound emotional states through his illustrations.
