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Greco-Roman Origin Myths

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Art Inquiry: Diana and Endymion
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Jean-Honoré Fragonard, Diana and Endymion (about 1753/1755)
Painting a night scene is a challenge. Fragonard gave the night a pastel-colored lightness, using soft blues and grays.

Learn more about this work of art by answering the multiple-choice questions below. Mouse over the image for clues!

1. Why is Endymion sleeping?

  1. It is the end of a long day.
  2. He fell asleep while tending sheep.
  3. He is pretending to sleep to avoid Diana.
  4. Diana put a spell on him, causing him to sleep forever.

2. Why is there a crescent moon behind Diana?

  1. She is the goddess of the moon.
  2. She is the goddess of the night sky.
  3. It creates a romantic setting for Diana and Endymion.
  4. That is where Endymion used to be.

3. According to this myth, when there is a new moon, it means . . .

  1. Endymion has woken up and gone home.
  2. Endymion’s dog will begin to howl.
  3. Diana has left the sky to be at Endymion's side.
  4. Cupid will turn into a star.

4. Why is Cupid in the picture?

  1. He is in every myth.
  2. He is a symbol of the love that Diana feels for Endymion.
  3. He is Endymion’s long-lost brother and is trying to save him.
  4. He is lost and confused.
 
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Jean-Honoré Fragonard, Diana and Endymion, c. 1753/1755, oil on canvas, National Gallery of Art, Timken Collection