Propaganda. The Theater of Power in the Early Modern Period
The fascinating world of early modern propaganda is presented at the Archdiocesan Museum in Olomouc in the exhibition Propaganda: The Theater of Power in the Early Modern Era. Europe from the 16th to the 18th century was undergoing transformation under the pressure of religious conflicts, the rise of nation-states, and new strategies of power. Propaganda became the key tool through which both ecclesiastical and secular elites shaped public opinion and consolidated their authority.
The pope portrayed as the Antichrist, a monarch presented as a victor from ancient history, a military leader celebrated as the savior of the faith, and an enemy depicted as a cruel monster. The early modern era produced a remarkably effective set of images, stories, and symbols whose purpose was not merely to inform. They were intended to win over followers, reinforce obedience, justify war, and convince the public that the interpretation of society and the world being presented was the correct one.
Today, the word “propaganda” generally conjures up images of lies, manipulation, and totalitarian regimes. Its origin, however, is less ominous. It derives from the Latin propagare, meaning “to spread” or “to multiply,” and the modern history of this term is linked to the Papal Congregation for the Propagation of the Faith (Sacra Congregatio de Propaganda Fide), founded in 1622.
It did not take on a negative connotation until much later. If we want to understand the early modern period, we must therefore set aside our 20th-century experience for a moment. Propaganda does not necessarily have to be untrue. Its essence lies rather in its intent—it selects facts, assigns them a certain meaning, and seeks to influence the attitudes and behavior of its audience. A report on a victorious battle might have presented accurate facts, yet omitted mention of its own losses, emphasized God’s favor, and portrayed the ruler as the sole protector of the country. The opponent, in turn, interpreted the same event quite differently. Propaganda did not present the world for impartial assessment; it guided the viewer toward a desired conclusion.
Visitors will see how images, words, and ceremonial spectacles—from books, prints, and paintings to theatrical performances—have become powerful tools of persuasion. The exhibition tells not only the story of what people saw in the past, but also why they were meant to see it in this particular way. For each work, we can ask: Who created and commissioned it? Who was it intended for? What emotions was it meant to evoke? What does it emphasize, and what does it conceal? Such questions restore the images’ original urgency. They show that portraits, medals, leaflets, ceremonial parades, theatrical performances, and fireworks were not merely embellishments of political history. They helped shape history.
Translated with www.DeepL.com/Translator (free version)