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Flowering In The Springtime: An Iconographical Analysis Of Botticelli’S Primavera, Eynav Ovadia

Theses

This thesis examines how the iconographical program of Botticelli’s Primavera allows the painting to function as a how-to guide of sexuality for an aristocratic young bride in late-fifteenth century Florence. This thesis argues that the inclusion and juxtaposition of specific mythological figures creates a message about the appropriate locations and behaviors expected of a woman when expressing her sexuality. This iconographical program takes into account popular vernacular literature, allegorical meanings of mythology, and Christian understanding of Classical myth in order to produce a message that is meant to be understood by a very specific audience.