In what ways and to what extent is an understanding of historical context important in approaching the works of (a)Jean-Jacques Rousseau, and (b)Jacques-Louis David. In this essay I will attempt to illustrate how an ahistorical approach to the works of David and Rousseau is possible. I will discuss how a historical approach adds to this and as such assess its importance in fully appreciating their work. We can approach David's paintings with a …showed first 75 words of 1208 total…

…showed last 75 words of 1208 total…a great deal to a purely formal analysis. Historical context reveals that the works of David and Rousseau were a direct response to society. Furthermore that their personal political and moralistic values have directly effected their work. Also that, because of its reception, their work in turn had an impact on events. In conclusion therefore, an understanding of historical context is very important in fully appreciating the meaning of the works of David and Rousseau.