Abstract

This paper examines the construct of the Apocalypse in the context of capitalist crisis. More specifically it studies depictions of the Apocalypse in Art, while also considering the broader political and economical conditions to explore whether there might be links between Art Historical interest in the Apocalypse and capitalist crisis.
Taking as its starting point Tate Britain’s recent John Martin retrospective, entitled John Martin: Apocalypse, the paper speculates that depictions of Biblical Apocalyptic scenes in Martin’s paintings are actually metaphors for revolution (French and American). It investigates possible links between Martin’s apocalyptic imagery and British imperial ambitions, and the rise of capitalism.