Question

What is the function of the bronze statue "The Burghers of Calais" by Auguste Rodin?

1) To commemorate the Hundred Year War between France and England
2) To express the artist's personal feelings about the historical event
3) To emphasize the humanity and heroism of the burghers (town elders/ councilmen)
4) All of the above

Answer 1

The function of the bronze statue "The Burghers of Calais" by Auguste Rodin is to emphasize the humanity and heroism of the burghers.

Step-by-step explanation:

The function of the bronze statue "The Burghers of Calais" by Auguste Rodin is 3) To emphasize the humanity and heroism of the burghers (town elders/ councilmen). The sculpture is a monument commemorating an event during the Hundred Years War when Calais was under siege.

Rodin portrayed the burghers as worried and worn, emphasizing their humanity and the bravery of their sacrifice. The monument is considered innovative for its emotional portrayal and for being displayed at the same level as the viewers, without a traditional pedestal.