Description
Ophelia (1851-1852) by John Everett Millais is one of the most iconic and emotionally charged works of the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood. The painting depicts a tragic scene from Shakespeare’s Hamlet, in which Ophelia, overwhelmed by grief after the death of her father, drowns in a stream while attempting to collect flowers. Millais’ rendering of this moment captures both the beauty and the tragedy of Ophelia’s death, combining intricate realism with symbolic depth.
In the painting, Ophelia is shown floating in a stream, surrounded by a rich tapestry of flowers. Her face is serene, almost ethereal, but her lifeless body and the flowing water evoke a sense of inevitable fate. Her long, flowing hair and gown drift in the water, creating a haunting and delicate image. The flowers surrounding her—many of which are specifically chosen for their symbolic meanings—add layers of depth to the painting. For example, daisies, representing innocence, and pansies, symbolizing love and remembrance, reflect Ophelia’s lost purity and the complexity of her emotions before her death.
Millais’ remarkable attention to detail, typical of the Pre-Raphaelite style, is evident in the lush natural setting. The flowers, plants, and the water are meticulously painted, showcasing the artist’s dedication to capturing nature with extraordinary precision. The naturalistic approach contrasts with the tragic, almost surreal, portrayal of Ophelia’s figure, creating a juxtaposition between the beauty of nature and the sorrow of human life.
The painting is not only a depiction of a literary moment but also a meditation on themes of innocence, madness, and the fragility of life. Millais’ Ophelia remains one of the most celebrated works of the Pre-Raphaelite movement, demonstrating the group’s commitment to merging narrative storytelling with stunning, highly detailed naturalism.
