Destiny Graham

One cultural work that I find interesting is the mural "The Last Supper" by Leonardo da

Vinci, located in the Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie in Milan, Italy. This mural is a large-

scale painting created in the 15th century and portrays the biblical scene of Jesus Christ's last

meal with his disciples.

The characteristics that stand out to me in this work are the intricate details and

perspective used by Leonardo da Vinci. The composition of the painting is carefully arranged,

with Jesus at the center and his disciples surrounding him. The use of light and shadow adds

depth and realism to the figures, while the facial expressions and body language convey

emotions and interactions among the characters.

The creator intended to express the sacred and pivotal moment of the Last Supper in

Christian theology. Through his attention to detail, da Vinci captures the individual personalities

and reactions of the disciples, as well as their collective disbelief and confusion at the revelation

that one of them will betray Jesus. The painting also symbolizes communion, sacrifice, and the

journey towards redemption.

In my opinion, da Vinci was successful in expressing the intended themes and emotions

in "The Last Supper." The painting continues to inspire and captivate viewers centuries after its

creation. The attention to detail, perspective, and symbolism contribute to its lasting impact and

cultural significance.
 For a cultural work from an unfamiliar culture, I choose the Noh theater masks of Japan.

Noh theater is a traditional form of Japanese theater that combines poetry, dance, and music.

These masks are an integral part of the Noh theater, representing various characters such as gods,

demons, and spirits.

The value of studying cultural works from different cultures lies in the opportunity to

broaden our understanding and appreciation of diverse artistic expressions. By exploring cultural

works from unfamiliar cultures, we gain insight into their unique histories, beliefs, and

aesthetics. It helps us to challenge our own perspectives and expand our cultural horizons.

Looking through the lens of the humanities allows us to delve deeper into the reasons

behind the creation of diverse cultural works. It helps us understand the historical, social, and

religious contexts in which these works were produced. By analyzing the artistic choices and

symbolism present in these works, we gain a deeper understanding of the cultural values and

beliefs that influenced their creation.

Overall, diversity in the study of the humanities enriches our understanding of human

creativity, expression, and identity. It encourages us to appreciate and respect the cultural

diversity present in our world and fosters a greater sense of empathy and interconnectedness

among different cultures.