Exploring the Power of Heroic Rape: How Rape Image Can Transform Art

Rape is one of the most heinous crimes that can be committed, and yet it is still

prevalent in our society. The power of rape images in art can be a powerful tool to

bring attention to this issue and raise awareness of the impacts of sexual assault.

The word "rape" conjures images of Poussin's Rape of the Sabines, Titian's Rape of

Europa, or any other similar representation in which the attacker is a Greek or

Roman god or hero. This kind of picture, which Susan Brownmiller calls "heroic

rape”, has always drawn a lot of interest.

What is the Power of Rape in Art?

The use of rape in art can be a powerful tool to raise awareness of the issue and to

show the potential for survivors to overcome their trauma and reclaim their lives. It

can also be used to challenge the societal norms around sexual assault, to show the

power that survivors have in reclaiming their own stories and to create a space

where survivors can feel heard and seen.

Rape Museums and Art Exhibitions

Rape museums provide a space for survivors to share their stories and for artists to

explore the issue of rape in art.

By providing a space for survivors to share their stories and for artists to explore

the issue of rape in art, these exhibitions can help to create a more open and

honest discussion about the issue of sexual assault.

The word "rape" conjures images of Poussin's Rape of the Sabines, Titian's Rape of

Europa, or any other similar representation in which the attacker is a Greek or

Roman god or hero. This kind of picture, which Susan Brownmiller calls "heroic"

rape, has always drawn a lot of interest.

The History of Rape in Art

Prior to 1400, artwork on the topic of rape exhibited symbolic hand gestures or

motions rather than sexual violence. However, the later depictions of rape in

paintings that date after 1400 exhibit a violent undertone.However, the sorrow 

in the victim's expression clearly indicates that violence is

being committed or has already been committed in these paintings.

Sexual violence and assault have often been depicted as totally acceptable forms of

romantic conquests in folklore, and when the rapist also happened to be a god, the

victim was expected to perceive the act as an honour.