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In 1885, the town council of Calais commissioned the French sculptor Auguste Rodin to create a sculpture commemorating the bravery of their local heroes, the so-called Burghers of Calais. This publication includes a summary of the sculpture's history, general information about Rodin, connections with other artist's works, a detailed analysis of the sculpture's formal innovations, a writing activity, and a bibliography. These materials should prove useful for teachers of various disciplines. Studying and appreciating the complexities and nuances of Rodin's The Burghers of Calais will teach students about innovation, creativity, heroism, and self-expression, as well as about looking, thinking, and writing critically.
This resource was produced in conjunction with the special exhibition Rodin's Monument to Victor Hugo. The exhibition was organized by the Iris and B. Gerald Cantor Foundation. The exhibition in New York was made possible, in part, by The Georges Lurcy Charitable and Educational Trust.
Suggestions for Educators
Introduction
Classroom Activity
The Story of the Burghers of Calais
The Individual Burghers
History of the Commission
Rodin's Innovations
Bridge to the Twentieth CenturyDegasPhotographyRodin's Critics
Casting Rodin's Sculpture
Chronology of the Artist's Life
Bibliography
Auguste Rodin (French, Paris 1840–1917 Meudon)
Date: modeled 1884–95, this bronze cast 1985Accession Number: 1989.407
Edgar Degas (French, Paris 1834–1917 Paris)
Date: ca. 1890Accession Number: 29.100.42
