The Moon and Sixpence · Chapter
LVII explained
Dr.
What happens
Dr. Coutras reveals the fate of Strickland's final masterpiece, which was burned by Ata at his request after his death. He describes the overwhelming and troubling genius of the murals Strickland painted in his hut, which he compares to Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel. The chapter ends with the narrator viewing a fruit piece by Strickland that evokes a sense of dark, enchanted mystery.
Themes in this chapter
Artistic Genius and Sacrifice
Strickland's final masterpiece is described as a work of genius that he deliberately destroys, completing his life's purpose and finding peace.
The Primitive and the Civilized
The murals depict a vision of the beginnings of the world, blending primal instincts with divine elements, set in a native hut far from civilization.
The Pursuit of Truth and Beauty
Strickland's art evokes a troubling beauty that reveals deep truths about life, nature, and the human soul, leaving a lasting impression on viewers.
Characters to notice
- Dr. Coutras
Narrates the story of Strickland's final days, the destruction of his masterpiece, and shows the narrator a fruit piece.
- The Narrator
Listens to Dr. Coutras's account and views Strickland's painting, reflecting on its meaning.
- Ata
Fulfills Strickland's wish by burning the house and his masterpiece after his death; later moves to the Marquesas with her child.
- Madame Coutras
Interrupts the conversation, described as an imposing and talkative woman who dislikes the fruit piece in her home.
Key passages
“He had achieved what he wanted. His life was complete. He had made a world and saw that it was good. Then, in pride and contempt, he destroyed it.”
Strickland fulfilled his artistic vision and, satisfied, chose to annihilate his creation out of pride and disdain.
Dr. Coutras explains Strickland's motivation for destroying his masterpiece.
“It was a vision of the beginnings of the world, the Garden of Eden, with Adam and Eve—que sais-je?—it was a hymn to the beauty of the human form, male and female, and the praise of Nature, sublime, indifferent, lovely, and cruel.”
The mural depicted the primordial world, Eden, and humanity, celebrating the human body and nature's dual aspects of beauty and indifference.
Dr. Coutras describes the subject of Strickland's final work.
“I felt that Strickland had kept his secret to the grave.”
The narrator concludes that Strickland's true essence and artistic mystery remained undisclosed even after death.
Reflection on the enigmatic nature of Strickland's art and life.