Part 3: Research Point - William Hogarth

 

Comparing these two etchings by William Hogarth and looking at the symbolism and meaning behind them, it is clear to see that the author intends to liken the drinking of gin to death and destruction and the moderate consumption of beer as happiness, success, health and capability.

Looking at 'Gin Lane' I have circled the areas that seem to be portraying a sense of destruction in one way or another. You can see by the composition of the scene that the steps leading you into the city and the goings on there are leading you to into the destruction. The light is placed far away in the distance and the picture has a sense of darkness all around which gives a sense of foreboding and death. The people and children in this etching are either starving, completely drunk and unaware of themselves and their actions or dead. They are strewn across the steps, falling, fighting or laying down dead. On the left side of the picture there is an arrow pointing towards a building that is decaying at that very moment, with bricks falling to the ground from high level and parts of the building is missing and in disrepair. This is literally pointing to the consequences of drinking gin to excess and suggesting that continuing to drink gin will ultimately cause your death and the destruction of the Lane.

In contrast 'Beer Street' appears to be a respectable place, where people are joyful, well fed and capable. Crime is dealt with and the maintenance of the buildings are well kept. There doesn't appear to be any children in the picture perhaps suggesting that they are well and in school or being taken care of as opposed to in 'Gin Lane' where they are severely neglected. The arrow that features in 'Gin Lane' also appears in 'Beer Street' but this time it is on the right side of the image and is pointing down towards the well kept buildings and light. Light fills most of the picture suggesting that this street and it's people are happy, well looked after and wealthy, a complete contrast to 'Gin Lane' residents. There are people seated, tables and baskets, books and someone, perhaps royalty, being carried along in a carriage. The overall message in this etching is drinking beer responsibly won't ruin your life and will create a happy and well kept place to live and work.