The Third of May 1808

Francisco Goya

The Third of May 1808

The Third of May 1808, also known as The Execution of the Defenders of Madrid, is a significant painting by Spanish Romantic artist Francisco Goya. Created in the early 19th century, it depicts the brutal execution of Spanish civilians by French soldiers during the Peninsular War. The painting is renowned for its emotional intensity and dramatic composition. Goya masterfully captures the despair, fear, and tragedy of the event, highlighting the suffering of the innocent victims. The Third of May 1808 is considered a powerful critique of war and oppression, and it exemplifies the Romantic movement's emphasis on individual emotion, social commentary, and the exploration of human suffering and resilience.