The Mona Lisa, painted by the renowned artist Leonardo da Vinci in the early 16th century, is one of the most famous and enigmatic works of art in human history. Teaching students about the rich history of this iconic painting not only introduces them to the world of art but also helps them understand how culture and history intertwine. This article aims to offer guidance on how to effectively teach students about the history of the Mona Lisa.
Introduce Leonardo da Vinci
Before delving into the painting itself, give your students an overview of Leonardo da Vinci’s life, his works, and his impact on art and science. Explain how he was a polymath engaged in various fields such as painting, sculpture, architecture, engineering, and more. This context will enable your students to appreciate not just the Mona Lisa, but also its creator.
Examine the Painting’s Details
Prepare high-quality images or videos that closely examine the details of the Mona Lisa. Discuss significant features such as her enigmatic smile, her eyes that seem to follow you wherever you go, and her unique background with no visible brushstrokes. Encourage students to express their thoughts and observations about these distinct elements.
Explore Stories Surrounding Mona Lisa’s Identity
Present different theories regarding who the subject of the Mona Lisa was. The leading theory suggests that she was Lisa Gherardini, a Florentine woman married to a merchant named Francesco del Giocondo. However, other theories propose that she could be a representation of Leonardo himself or even an amalgamation of different women he encountered throughout his life.
Discuss its Theft and Famous Travels
In 1911, the Mona Lisa was stolen from the Louvre Museum and mysteriously reappeared two years later. Discuss this fascinating period in your lesson plan – particularly focusing on Vincenzo Peruggia, the Italian who stole the painting with the aim of repatriating it to Italy. Highlight how this event raised the painting’s profile, making it a worldwide sensation later.
The Mona Lisa’s travels include Leonardo carrying it around like a precious treasure and Napoleon Bonaparte hanging it in his bedroom. These stories can pique your student’s interest and help them understand the cultural impact of the artwork.
Explain its Popularity and Legacy
Examine how the Mona Lisa’s fame has influenced modern art and popular culture. Discuss how art movements like Dadaism (including Marcel Duchamp’s L.H.O.O.Q.) have incorporated or parodied the iconic portrait. Show students examples of how the Mona Lisa has been regularly referenced in movies, television, songs, ads, and even emojis.
