Edgar Degas

Worksheet Description

This worksheet provides a biographical passage about Edgar Degas, a renowned French artist famous for his paintings of ballet dancers. It discusses Degas’ early talent for art, his father’s wishes for him to become a lawyer, his education, and his eventual full commitment to an art career. The text describes Degas’ challenges in getting accepted by the art establishment, his association with other notable artists of the time, and his contribution to the Impressionist movement. It highlights Degas’ unique focus within Impressionism, his method of working, and the legacy of his artwork.

The worksheet is designed to teach students about the life and work of Edgar Degas, his role in the Impressionist movement, and the impact he had on the art world. Through reading comprehension questions, students are encouraged to learn about the historical context in which Degas painted, his personal challenges, and his artistic focus. The exercise aims to enhance students’ understanding of art history, develop their ability to extract key facts from a nonfiction text, and appreciate the evolution of an artist’s career and its broader cultural significance.