Famous Postscripts: Etched in the Annals of History
On this November 26th, let’s explore some of the most intriguing postscripts that have left an enduring legacy on European art and literature.
TL;DR:
- November 26th has witnessed significant postscripts in European history.
- These postscripts reveal intriguing insights into the lives and works of artists and authors.
- From Michelangelo’s cryptic message in the Sistine Chapel to Beethoven’s heartfelt dedication in his Ninth Symphony, postscripts have shaped our understanding of these icons.
On This Day in History (November 26th)
1. Michelangelo’s Enigmatic Postscript (1512)
At the foot of the Last Judgment fresco in the Sistine Chapel, Michelangelo inscribed a haunting message: “I am the one who did this.” This enigmatic postscript has fueled centuries of speculation about the artist’s motivations and state of mind.
2. Leonardo da Vinci’s Technical Notes (1490s)
Leonardo da Vinci often annotated his sketches with detailed notes and observations. These postscripts provide valuable insights into his scientific and artistic thought processes. For instance, his Codex Leicester features annotations on hydraulics, astronomy, and geology.
3. Beethoven’s Heartfelt Dedication (1824)
In his Ninth Symphony, Beethoven inscribed the words “Von Herzen – möchte es wieder – zu Herzen gehn!” (“From the heart – may it reach – the heart again!”). This postscript reflects his desire to connect with his audience emotionally.
4. Jane Austen’s Witty Postscript (1813)
In a letter to her sister Cassandra, Jane Austen included a postscript that has become renowned for its wit: “Till this moment I never knew myself to be half so clever!” This playful remark captures Austen’s self-deprecating humor and her ability to find joy in her writing.
5. Dickens’s Social Commentary (1854)
Charles Dickens frequently used postscripts to comment on social issues. In his novel “Hard Times,” he included a postscript titled “Stephen Blackpool’s Fall,” which examines the plight of the working class in Victorian England.
6. Van Gogh’s Emotional Outpouring (1890)
Vincent van Gogh often painted with intense emotion, and this was reflected in his postscripts. In a letter to his brother Theo, he wrote: “I believe that I shall recover my tranquillity, but not my energy. For I am excessively sensitive.”
7. Joyce’s Experimental Modernism (1922)
James Joyce’s groundbreaking novel “Ulysses” contains numerous postscripts that challenge traditional literary conventions. These postscripts, often written in different languages and styles, reflect Joyce’s experimental approach to narrative.
If You Know, You Know…
Why was Michelangelo’s postscript in the Sistine Chapel written in the first person?
Answer: Because he wanted to make it clear that he was the artist who created the masterpiece.
Expansive Summary
The postscripts associated with November 26th in European history reveal the personal voices behind iconic works of art and literature. From Michelangelo’s enigmatic message to Beethoven’s heartfelt dedication, these postscripts offer glimpses into the motivations, emotions, and beliefs of the creators. They serve as reminders of the human connections that exist within the annals of history, connecting us to the minds and hearts of those who have shaped our cultural landscape. These postscripts inspire us to reflect on the power of creativity and the enduring legacy of human expression.