Abstract
The current study analyzes several medieval and modern works of art that portray mythological creatures who entered Noah's ark (Genesis 6:5-9) – flying dragon-like and imaginary creatures as well as unicorns. The artists assumedly chose to portray these animals for several reasons: a) in the ancient world the existence of creatures with unusual and exceptional qualities was a commonly held belief; b) mythological animals aroused the imagination of the ancients and sparked their curiosity.
Highlights
Resumo: Este estudo analisa algumas obras de arte medievais e modernas que criam criaturas mitológicas que entraram na Arca de Noé (Gn 6:5-9), criaturas voadoras semelhantes a dragões e imaginárias, assim como unicórnios
The artists assumedly chose to portray these animals for several reasons: a) in the ancient world the existence of creatures with unusual and exceptional qualities was a commonly held belief; b) mythological animals aroused the imagination of the ancients and sparked their curiosity
The main question discussed in the article is: Why did the artists to include these creatures in their description of Noah's ark?
Summary
Revista Digital de Estudos Judaicos da UFMG. Belo Horizonte, v. 13, n. 24, maio 2019. Over the generations various sources, both Jewish and non-Jewish, referred to the various species of animals sheltered by the ark, as part of their interpretation and study of the story and its theological meanings. From ancient to modern times, the story of the flood has received many varied interpretations. Most of these were written in the form of commentaries on the text, while others are reflected in visual art. Artists who painted scenes from the story expressed their perceptions and understanding of its distinct parts. The story of the flood attracted the attention of well-known artists such as Michelangelo and Rembrandt, and these included in their works new and interesting insights
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