Explore the Association with Neue Sachlichkeit (New Objectivity) of this artwork.
Max Beckmann enlisted in the German army during World War I.  Initially, like many Neue Sachlichkeit and Futurist artists, Beckmann believed war could cleanse the individual and society. After experiencing the widespread destruction and horror of the war, however, he became disillusioned with war and rejected the supposed glory of military service. The Night's illogical composition relays post-war disillusionment and the artist's confusion over the "society he saw descending into madness" (Kleiner et al.). Although The Night does not directly depict a specific battle or war scene, the image is considered one of the most poignant and seminal pieces of post-war art.
Author Stephan Lackner writes:But Beckmann sees no purpose in the suffering he shows; there is no glory for anybody, no compensation, (...) Beckmann blames human nature as such, and there seems to be no physical escape from this overwhelming self-accusation. Victims and aggressors alike are cornered. There is no exit.
Max Beckmann World War I New Objectivity German army Futurist Neue Sachlichkeit