I picked The Assassination of Marat because the heroic drama captivates me. History remains crucial to understand and analyze this painting. David painted this right after the murder of Marat. Marat was know as one of the fathers of the revolution. He published scientific journals, and he was not afraid to display his opinion. Marat's pen exhibits his journalist involvement. His resentment towards monarchy built his journalism career. Marat also participated in the National Assembly.

On July 13th, Charlotte Corday stabbed Marat. The bloody knife is located in the left corner of the painting. Corday supported the Girondins, which was a moderate Republican party during the French Revolution. Marat took frequent baths because of his skin disease. Marat's death was ironic because right before his murder, he planned the execution of a list of traitors. Marat assumed Corday planned to provide him with the list.

The composition consists of strict and harsh lines. Horizontal lines appear on the bathtub, side table, and ledge. Vertical lines develop on the side of the table, creases in the white cloth, and Marat's arm. David typically paints a neutral background, which highlights the subject. David admires Marat by giving his skin a glowing effect. The painting separates into two halves. Marat and his bath separates from the neutral background.

Marat and David had a personal friendly relationship. Therefore, David mimics paintings of Jesus Christ. Both Marat and Jesus Christ's lifeless arms dangle in paintings. Paintings of Christ and Marat show violent scenes, but Marat and Jesus display peaceful facial expressions as they take their last breath of air. David portrays Marat to exhibit sacrificial features. Marat's face exhibits innocence, and the knife confirms the murder weapon. The cloth around Marat's head resembles a halo. The circular composition from the halo continues to the left edge of the painting shown in the cloth. Furthermore, this painting allude to religion. Overall, David transforms a messy, violent scene into a peaceful and heroic death. However, Marat's character comes into question, for he plans to execute "traitors." Thus, this painting does not accurately portray his behavior.