With the coronation of the two Catholic rulers, Ferdinand and Isabella in 1479, the country of Spain slowly began to unite. Piece by piece, the King and Queen recaptured once lost lands and built their empire. In 1516 Carlos V rose to power, establishing the Hapsburg reign. The Hapsburg ruled for nearly two hundred years until the death of Charles II. With him died a Golden Age for Spain that the Catholic rulers established. Spain fell into a time of mass poverty, disorganization, and lackadaisical rule. One force that was structured in Spain was the church. Catholicism was not only...
symbolic tone and not realistic.

Goya could be considered one of the most talented artists of his time and without question he is. However what is to be merited is influence and understanding of Spain and her people. A true artist, or painter in this case, can put thoughts onto canvas forcing the observer to look beyond the jewels and ranks of royalty. They can tell a characters life story or thoughts with miniscule variations in facial and body language. Goya did these things to perfection and should be regarded as one of the great minds of Spanish culture.