The Ecstasy of St. Teresa was meant to show Teresa __.
A. pierced by an angel’s arrow b. infused with divine love
C. A devout Christian
D. A role model to be followed by other devout Christians
E. Of the other answers
The Correct answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is b. infused with divine love.
Explanation:
“The Ecstasy of St. Teresa,” created by the renowned Baroque sculptor Gian Lorenzo Bernini, captures a pivotal moment in the life of St. Teresa of Avila, a prominent figure in the Counter-Reformation and a mystic known for her intense spiritual experiences. This sculpture, housed in the Cornaro Chapel in Santa Maria della Vittoria in Rome, portrays Teresa in a state of rapture as she experiences a profound encounter with divine love.
The depiction of Teresa is striking; she is shown reclining in a dramatic pose, her expression one of blissful surrender. Above her, an angel is depicted holding a golden arrow, which is often interpreted as a symbol of divine love being inflicted upon her. However, the focus of the work is not merely on the physical act of being pierced by the arrow; rather, it conveys the broader concept of being overwhelmed by divine love and grace. The arrow serves as a metaphor for the spiritual transformation Teresa undergoes during this encounter.
Bernini’s use of light and shadow enhances the sense of divine illumination, as natural light floods the chapel, illuminating Teresa and the angel, creating a celestial atmosphere. The rich details in the drapery and expressions emphasize the emotional depth of the moment, inviting viewers to reflect on the intensity of Teresa’s experience.
While options a, c, and d reflect aspects of Teresa’s life and legacy, they do not encapsulate the primary intent of Bernini’s sculpture. The artist’s focus is on conveying the profound, mystical experience of being infused with divine love, which resonates deeply with the spiritual themes of the Baroque period. Thus, the most accurate answer is b, as it highlights the essence of Teresa’s ecstatic experience in her relationship with the divine.