Géricault and the Raft of the Medusa (Part 2)

Sep 24, 2025

The aftermath of the Medusa shipwreck sends shockwaves through France, leading to scandal and obsession. Artist Théodore Géricault becomes captivated by the wreck, diving deep into survivor stories and meticulous research for his iconic painting. His graphic depiction of suffering stirs public outrage and deepens political discourse. Géricault’s artistic journey includes morgue studies and a profound connection with the human experience. The mystery surrounding lost portraits and new findings adds intrigue to his legacy.

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INSIGHT

Inquiry, Leak, And Public Outrage

The official inquiry found clear negligence by the Medusa's captain, and public outrage followed once the full story leaked.
The published survivor narrative amplified political pressure on the French government.

ANECDOTE

Survivors' Narrative Sparked International Interest

Survivors Corréard and Savigny published a explosive, multi-edition narrative detailing the raft and its horrors.
Their account spread widely and was translated into multiple languages, fueling international interest.

INSIGHT

Art As Political Protest

Théodore Géricault treated The Raft of the Medusa as a political statement attacking French incompetence after the Napoleonic era.
He collaborated with survivors to make the painting meticulously accurate and morally charged.

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In the aftermath of the shipwreck, France was scandalized by what had happened as the details emerged. And artist Théodore Géricault became obsessed with it.

Research:

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Barran, Julian. “Théodore Géricault, Illustrations to Alexandre Corréard’s ‘Le Naufrage de La Méduse.’” The Burlington Magazine, vol. 119, no. 889, 1977, pp. 311–310. JSTOR, http://www.jstor.org/stable/878824
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