Auguste Rodin: The Burghers of Calais

In 1885, the town council of Calais commissioned the French sculptor Auguste Rodin to create a sculpture commemorating the bravery of their local heroes, the so-called Burghers of Calais. This publication includes a summary of the sculpture's history, general information about Rodin, connections with other artist's works, a detailed analysis of the sculpture's formal innovations, a writing activity, and a bibliography. These materials should prove useful for teachers of various disciplines. Studying and appreciating the complexities and nuances of Rodin's The Burghers of Calais will teach students about innovation, creativity, heroism, and self-expression, as well as about looking, thinking, and writing critically.