Analysis Of The Biblical Story Of David And Goliath

Few works of art carry the power of instantaneous recognition throughout the world in quite the same way as a particular statue housed in the Accademia Galley of Florence, Italy. Widely considered to be the epitome of the male human form, Michelangelo’s David has transcended generations while at the same time inspiring countless minds to create. More than just a biblical story illustrated through stone, the David has spoken to the masses in a myriad of aspects including literally, metaphorically, and spiritually. This was accomplished by Michelangelo’s gifted abilities of immaculate visualization and execution, while still maintaining creative integrity, resulting in a timeless masterpiece. In more way than one, Michelangelo’s most well known monument shows us that the unlikely is very possible.

Before we can understand the David, we have to understand the inspiration behind it. Based of the main character of the biblical story of David and Goliath, David personifies a young Israelite (age speculation varies between 12-19) who was the only one brave enough to face off against a Philistine man of nine feet in height named Goliath. Armed with only a sling and five stones, David incapacitated, killed and beheaded the giant man all while sending the opposing army retreating in fear.

The original idea that would lead to the fruition of Michelangelo’s David began on January 24th 1408 with the commission of the first larger than life sculpture that would adorn one of the 12 tribune spurs atop the Florence Cathedral. The goal was for each spur to showcase one of the 12 prophets of The Old Testament, but this vision was never realized. In fact, after the initial sculpture was finished, nearly 50 years would pass before another artist, A...

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...s contraposto posture, and muscles engorged in tense anticipation for the battle to come. Stoic expression is the only thing the David is wearing; absent of any fear, for the biblical David knew he was one of God’s chosen people and knew the Lord would favor him in the fight with the giant Philistine.

In conclusion, what would take nearly a century to begin and complete, through political shifts in power, and pass through the hands of two different artists before Michelangelo was afforded the opportunity to showcase his outstanding craft, David, would change the world. Michelangelo afforded a city a beacon of hope and freedom, the religious a closer look into different interpretations of a biblical tale, and the people of this world the confidence to believe that even against all odds, the underestimated and disenfranchised can prevail. The unlikely is very possible.