Question

David’s formal and thematic choices in The Oath of the Horatii demonstrate the principles of Neoclassicism, evident in the painting's

Group of answer choices

poetic literary associations and ambiguous narrative

small format as a cabinet picture intended as a conversation piece

compositional clarity and use of ancient texts to teach a moral lesson

appearance of quickly applied paint and loose brushwork

Answer 1

Compositional clarity and use of ancient texts to teach a moral lesson

Step-by-step explanation:

The painting depicts the moment that early Roman leader Horatius gives weapons to his three sons in order to fight the Curatii, members of the neighboring state. They seem to command most of the space in the canvas, instantly drawing the viewer’s attention to the conflict that is taking place.

David uses this story to teach a moral lesson on the consequences of valuing militarism and the state over one's own family.