The text discusses how natural movements in art and performance portray stories effectively, often surpassing spoken language. It emphasizes the importance of understanding the differences between actions and passions, particularly how they manifest in the human body and facial expressions. The text argues for the value of observing natural gestures to improve artistic representation.
The Depiction of Humans, etc.
Natural gestures surpass the eloquence of speakers. Here, it reminds us of Lucian's story of a dancer under Nero, who, purely through the movement of his body, wanted to depict various events. Among others, he performed the adultery of Mars and Venus with such natural actions that all the spectators understood it as clearly as if they saw it happening in front of their eyes. This demonstrates once again, that painting art does not have to deviate from life; similarly, life should not embarrass itself in any aspect: For it's firm and certain, that anyone wishing to dip art rules in the vat of nature, shall rarely find anything other than remarkable improvements.
It is further necessary to pay attention to the necessity of knowing the distinction between actions and passions and how and when they occur. Also, in which part or section of the body these actions and heartbeats show themselves the most, and through which limbs these respective actions are executed.
Regarding the passions expressed through the face and the movement of the body, they must primarily ensure that these are accurately perceived in the facial expressions. And then, adjust the movements of the body to follow them, making sure they have a uniform effect. Even though in natural life the actions required for expressing passions are followed by the impulses of the mind; and that the face shows the body.
One must understand the distinction between actions and passions well.
What one must perceive in the faces.