The Moon and Sixpence · Chapter
XLIV explained
The narrator reflects on Strickland's views of great artists, noting his lack of eloquence, sardonic humor, and conventional opinions on painters like Velasquez, Chardin, and Rembrandt, with a surprising interest in Brueghel the Elder, whom
What happens
The narrator reflects on Strickland's views of great artists, noting his lack of eloquence, sardonic humor, and conventional opinions on painters like Velasquez, Chardin, and Rembrandt, with a surprising interest in Brueghel the Elder, whom Strickland admired for his unique vision and struggle.
Themes in this chapter
Artistic Genius and Sacrifice
Strickland's unconventional personality and his struggle to express his vision, as seen in his admiration for Brueghel, highlight the theme of artistic genius and the sacrifices it entails.
The Artist as Outcast
Strickland's sardonic humor, rudeness, and lack of conversational skill set him apart from society, reinforcing his role as an outcast artist.
Characters to notice
- Charles Strickland
Strickland's opinions on art are discussed; he is sardonic, rude, and has conventional views except for an interest in Brueghel the Elder.
- The Narrator
The narrator recounts Strickland's views on art and reflects on his own impressions of Brueghel.
- Dirk Stroeve
Stroeve is mentioned as holding forth on Monet, which Strickland dismisses with a comment about Winterhalter.
Key passages
“I prefer Winterhalter.”
Strickland says he likes Winterhalter better than Monet, likely to annoy Stroeve.
Strickland's sardonic humor and dismissal of Impressionist techniques.
“He’s all right. I bet he found it hell to paint.”
Strickland thinks Brueghel is decent and imagines he struggled greatly with his art.
Strickland's sympathy for Brueghel's difficult creative process.