Women of the Old Testament in Artistic Tradition: Sarah and Hagar, Leah and Rachel (RUS)
Event overview
What does a woman feel when the fate of an entire nation depends on her decision? What do artists see in her gaze — hope, jealousy, faith, or an inner fracture? Have you ever wondered why the images of Old Testament women became an inexhaustible source of inspiration for artists of different eras?
In this lecture, we will journey through the stories of Sarah and Hagar, Leah and Rachel — women whose destinies sound as dramatic as the artistic interpretations of their images. We’ll discuss how theologians interpret their stories and what deeper meanings they reveal: the trial of loyalty, the pain of rivalry, the expectation of a miracle, and the power of choice. We’ll see how these narratives transform into vivid images: from austere and solemn Eastern Christian depictions to the powerful and emotionally charged sculptures of Michelangelo. We’ll pay attention to what artists and sculptors emphasize — gestures, glances, and the silence that sometimes speaks louder than words.
This lecture will help you read familiar biblical pages in a new way and feel how art reveals the profound strength of Old Testament women’s images — eternally alive, always relevant.
Lecturer: Yulia Khlystun (PhD)
Duration: 1 hour
The lecture will take place in the Tea Room of Narva Castle in Russian
(Peetri plats 7, Narva)
Price: €7
