Picasso: Guernica
In Picasso: Guernica, host Lily Cole examines the iconic Cubist painting "Guernica," created by Pablo Picasso during World War II. Discover how Picasso's masterpiece reflects the horrors of war, particularly the bombing of the Spanish town of Guernica by Nazi forces. Through abstract imagery, Picasso conveyed the anguish and chaos of the conflict. This video is excerpted from BBC’s Icons: The Greatest Person of the 20th Century, a documentary series celebrating the achievements of the most influential figures of the era.
Lesson Express
Q: How does Picasso’s abstract style helps convey the chaos of war?
A: The abstract nature of the painting allows the emotions of war — fear, pain, and confusion — to be expressed in a way that a realistic depiction may not.
Q: What do you think Picasso was trying to communicate with his depiction of the bombing of Guernica?
A: He was highlighting the brutality of war and its impact on innocent civilians.
Q: Why is it important that "Guernica" is still relevant today, even though it was created over 80 years ago?
A: War and violence continue to affect people around the world, making the painting’s anti-war sentiment still powerful today.