Voorstellings van Batseba : intertekstualiteit in literêre kuns, beeldende kuns en werklikheid

Abstract

Interesting parallels between literary and visual arts exist. A text may possess visuality, while visual arts may possess textuality. In this paper, the interrelations between the literary description of the story of David and Bathsheba (2 Sm 11) and depictions of this story in the visual arts are explored. For some reason, this story possesses exceptional creative potential. Particular attention is given to the painting 'The Toilet of Bathsheba (1654)' by Rembrandt. An analysis of this painting sheds light on the subtle dynamics of the story. Its haunting beauty succeeds in communicating the complex implications of the story. Sexuality serves as an interface between the story and reality, luring the reader into this intrigue. The reader finds himself unexpectedly in David's position. By acknowledging this kind of intertextuality, new dimensions of meaning can be explored.