In the context of this artwork, explore the Artemisia as Mary Magdalene of the Interpretation.
Scholars like Mary Garrard interpret Artemisia's works, such as the Penitent Magdalene, to be representing Gentileschi. This interpretation is often understood because both the saint and painter faced stigmatization for being sexually promiscuous. The situations between the two figures of Mary Magdalene and Artemisia differ, however, because Mary Magdalene's stigma derives from her background as a prostitute, while Gentileschi's stigma stems from her rape trial in 1612. This interpretation is made due to the inscription, "Optimam partem elegit," (“you have chosen the best part”), which is interpreted as Gentileschi making the most of her assault by placing herself in Mary Magdalene's position. This interpretation could be applied to her professional success though, rather than making the most of her assault.In more recent scholarship academics such as Rebecca Mead have responded to the interpretation of Gentileschi's painting through the lens of her sexual assault, and subsequent understanding of Gentileschi's paintings as a channel for revenge, has been challenged. This perspective has been challenged because researchers want to view Gentileschi through multiple facets of her life; not just through her assault, but through her perspectives as a mother, as a successful business woman, and her “erotic passion”. Rather than see Gentileschi's paintings, such as the Penitent Magdalene, as a self portrait of Gentileschi for her similar features, one should view the Penitent Magdalene and think of the access Gentileschi had to source materials other than herself.
Mary Magdalene