William Morris, a figure synonymous with Victorian design and the Arts and Crafts movement, was not only an artist but also a passionate political activist. By the age of 49, Morris underwent a significant transformation, dedicating himself to revolutionary socialism. This commitment arose from his deep unease with the stark inequalities of British society, where the working class endured harsh conditions while the wealthy prospered. In the 1880s, Morris channeled his convictions into action, aiming to dismantle the system he believed perpetuated this injustice. He became a familiar presence at marches, a prolific writer of articles, and a compelling lecturer across the nation.
During these demonstrations, banners were crucial for socialist groups to display their solidarity and political beliefs. One such banner incorporated a powerful image: Adam and Eve, borrowed from Edward Burne-Jones’s illustrations for Morris’s own socialist novel, ‘A Dream of John Ball’. This novel, set during the Peasants’ Revolt of 1381, tells the story of John Ball, a priest who championed equality, famously questioning, “When Adam delved and Eve span, who was then the gentleman?” This potent imagery, connecting the biblical figures to the concept of inherent equality, became a visual representation of Morris’s socialist ideals, effectively translating complex political ideas into a readily understandable print for the masses.
Morris’s foray into political activism began with his joining the Social Democratic Federation in 1881. However, internal divisions soon led him to break away and establish the Socialist League in 1884. This new group embodied a more radical approach, advocating for a revolutionary overthrow of the existing order by a mobilized working class. Remarkably, throughout this intense period of political engagement, Morris continued to manage his successful design business. He didn’t see his activism and artistic pursuits as separate; rather, he deeply lamented that his beautifully crafted products remained financially out of reach for the very working classes he championed.
Ultimately, William Morris’s socialist activism, much like his artistic designs and prints, was driven by a vision of a society where everyone could live a comfortable life surrounded by beauty. His socialist banner, emblazoned with the image of Adam and Eve, serves as a striking example of how he integrated his artistic sensibilities with his political convictions, using visual prints to communicate powerful messages of social change and equality.
