The surrender of the British forces under General Burgoyne was reported throughout Europe. France, where this image was engraved, followed the story with great interest as it weighed whether to form a military alliance with the newly declared United States of America. According to the surrender agreement, the "Articles of Convention," Burgoyne, his officers, and staff rode to Gate's headquarters between American soldiers (few uniformed) lined on either side of the road. Burgoyne's army marched out of camp with "the Honors of War" (regimental colors flying, bands playing), laid down their arms on the parade ground, then marched between the American lines. Both armies observed Burgoyne surrender his sword to Gates who immediately returned it to Burgoyne.
Questions for Drawing 3
1. What evidence is there in both the foreground and the background of the picture that this engraving depicts a surrender ceremony?
2. What appear to be the emotions of General Burgoyne and General Gates? What appear to be the emotions of the officers accompanying Burgoyne? What appear to be the emotions of the soldiers accompanying Gates?
3. What aspects of the engraving seem to be most accurate? What seem to be historical inaccuracies, and why?
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