The statue David by Michelangelo (1475-1564) is much, much more than one of the more
recognizable art treasures of the Renaissance. As the first nude seen in Europe in 1000 years David is nothing less than the symbol of the change from what modern historians
call the dark ages to the Renaissance. While the subject is Biblical the classical Greek style is revealed not only by the nudity but
also by the sentiments
of pride and arrogance which are clearly seen on David's face. It is perhaps a good example of the
Hegelian concept of synthesis of the thesis and antithesis.
This conflict between antiquity and the religion which supplanted the classical world is superbly expressed by Charlton Heston
as Michelangelo in the movie
The Agony and the Ecstasy.
Quite apart from the social and religious implications of this statue is the artistic genius of Michelangelo which radiates
even from the
above image. One can only wonder what emotions would be stirred by seeing it in person. I don't want to trivialize it,
but they just don't make them like this anymore.
