What does American Gothic symbolize?
Consequently, what does American Gothic represent?
American Gothic. Wood was inspired to paint what is now known as the American Gothic House in Eldon, Iowa, along with "the kind of people I fancied should live in that house". It depicts a farmer standing beside his daughter – often mistakenly assumed to be his wife.
Additionally, what does the Pitchfork mean in American Gothic? There are also other ways to interpret this image. When Wood created this painting, the great depression was depriving many Americans of basic goods. The pitchfork seems to suggest a steadfastness and determination. A will to work hard and persevere. The pitchfork is a richly symbolic item.
Similarly, why is the American Gothic painting so famous?
American Gothic remains one of the most famous paintings in the history of American art. Some believe that Wood used this painting to satirize the narrow-mindedness and repression that has been said to characterize Midwestern culture, an accusation he denied.
Why was the American Gothic made?
The impetus for the painting came while Wood was visiting the small town of Eldon in his native Iowa. American Gothic, often understood as a satirical comment on the midwestern character, quickly became one of America's most famous paintings and is now firmly entrenched in the nation's popular culture.