Focus on The Beggars and explore the Analysis.
Modern eyes may be inclined to conclude that Brugel intended to invoke sympathy for the plight of the disabled figures, but from a historical perspective this is unlikely.  Europeans of Bruegel's time gave little regard to beggars, and the painting provides hints that Bruegel shared this denigration: the figures are outside the town walls and are posed in such ways as to provoke contempt and amusement.  The foxtail on some of the figures was a symbol at the time of ridicule in political caricature and real life.  The woman behind them bears an empty bowl and may appear to be ignoring the beggars.
foxtail