So they carried her off!

Details

Author’s text

In his artworks, Goya portrayed women as sensitive, warm and delicate beings, notwithstanding they are also punished when the artist wants to condemn an improper behaviour.

At first glance we can clearly observe two men kidnapping a woman, however it is indeed necessary a deeper look to properly understand the scene. Her body language reveals a contradictory attitude: she is hugging one of the abductors while relaxing her legs, therefore she offers no resistance and she even looks kind of confortable with the situation itself.

Although the men’s clothing may give away some clues about their real identities, these faceless figures can actually represent whoever behaves with not very honest intentions. They might have perceived this careless woman of whom they have decided to take advantage.

Remorse is useless when we do not behave properly and even lose respect for ourselves. As a consequence we also get the rest to be disrespectful with us.

Goya's comment

Women who do not respect themselves are exposed to be carried off by any dark soul. When there is nothing to do, everybody is surprised by the dreadful outcome.

Comparison with the original print