This picture is one we often see in homes, as well as in schoolhouses, and in many public buildings. It stands for the search for higher ideals which we are all making, and so its appeal is universal.
The earnest, uplifted face of the knight is full of youth and beauty. The horse, with his great, intelligent eyes, seems to know the importance of his errand.
The light comes from before them, brightening the pathway as if it would lead them on and on through the tangle of vines and deep woods which opposes them.
If you have been fortunate enough to see a suit of armor in some museum, you know how the heavy steel coat is planned and how the helmet, which Sir Galahad has taken off, will protect his head and face.
It is a moment of deep meditation and prayerful thought, for Sir Galahad is about to start out upon an undertaking in which many have failed and in which he cannot be sure of success. There is much of humility in his expression, nothing of the proud, dashing air of the adventurer.
This earnest, thoughtful youth, starting out full of courage and determination, will always have time for the little courtesies of life, for they are a part of his creed. A true knight, he has been taught, should defend to the uttermost the oppressed, aid the weak, and be brave, courteous, chaste, temperate, generous, and pious.
Questions to help the pupil understand the picture. Who was Sir Galahad? Upon what quest is he about to start? What preparation has he made for it? How old is he now? How did he receive the title “Sir”? What was the Holy Grail? What power had this cup? What could it not do for the person who saw it? Why was the sight of the Grail denied to
King Amfortas? What other punishment did he receive? Who could break this spell? how? What did Sir Galahad hope to do? How is he dressed? What protection was this armor? What might happen if he should be unhorsed? What weapons did he carry? How had Sir Galahad secured his sword and shield? Tell about the Round Table of King Arthur and the Siege Perilous. What happened when Sir Galahad entered? Of what did all these mysteries persuade the other knights? What happened when Sir Galahad came to the Castle of the Grail? Why did he fail? What was the result of this defeat? When did he succeed? What was the result? What is the main thought expressed in this picture?
The story of the artist. George Frederick Watts was born and raised in London, England. He learned to draw, we are told, much in the same way he learned to talk. His parents encouraged him always, and he seems to have had very few obstacles to overcome.
Though Watts entered the Royal Academy school of painting at an early age, he did not study there long. His art education was thus gained largely by his own efforts and observation. He studied ancient Greek sculpture closely and his work was always influenced by the classical standard.