Exploring the British Civil Wars through art
This talk by art curator Anna Lavelle explores the causes and events of the British Civil Wars, and the establishment of the New Model Army, through the art and visual culture of the 17th century and beyond.
Explore the themes of British Civil Wars and Art and Literature
About this talk
How can we use art to help students explore complex histories? This talk explores the causes and events of the British Civil Wars and the establishment of the first professional ‘New Model’ army in Britain, through the art and visual culture produced both at the time, and in later centuries.
Anna Lavelle looks at the role of art as propaganda for both the Royalists and Parliamentarians, the importance of mass-produced prints, Victorian artists’ revival of the subject, and more. Portraits of important figures like Oliver Cromwell and Charles I are investigated, along with artworks of key events and battles that shaped this turning point in British history.
Source pack
Our accompanying source pack features key images from the National Army Museum Collection which can be used in the classroom.
