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Michelangelo, The Creation of Adam, 1508–1512

Michelangelo’s fresco from the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel, painted c. 1508–1512, is one in a series portraying biblical stories and characters.

Subject

History
Social Studies

Language

English — US

Updated

August 2, 2016

Culture & Identity

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Credit:

Erich Lessing / Art Resource, NY

“The Creation of Adam,” painted by Michelangelo between 1508 and 1512, depicts the creation of humanity from the book of Genesis. Artist and Holocaust survivor Samuel Bak’s painting “The Creation of Wartime III, 1999–2008” evokes imagery from “The Creation of Adam” to explore similar themes.

Designed for use by educators in Jewish settings, Facing History’s lesson on Jewish theological dilemmas after the Holocaust invites students to compare and contrast Bak’s painting with Michelangelo's as they explore the themes of faith and doubt after the Holocaust.

Activity

Students practice gratitude by naming and recording three good things that have happened that day.

Two students look to the front of the classroom with smiles on their faces.

Activity

Students use poetry as a spark for reflection and discussion about what’s happening in their lives and the world.

Four students in conversation with each other in a classroom.

Activity

Students practice debate and perspective taking by taking a stand on a controversial statement.

Students move around the classroom in conversation with each other. One student looks directly into the camera with a smile on their face.

Activity

Students reflect on the day by asking them to share an appreciation, an apology, and an “aha” moment.

Activity

Students identify one personal or academic goal that they would like to commit to in the week ahead.

A Facing History journal sits on top of a student guide for Choices in Little Rock.

Activity

Students reflect on the past year and generate ideas for the kind of learning community and learning experiences they are hoping for this year.

Activity

Students consider what parts of our identities we choose for ourselves and what parts are chosen for us, as well as the impact our names can have on our identities.