The Apotheosis of Washington

Ran across something interesting today. First, the definition of apotheosis, because I had no idea:

---

Apotheosis:

1. The act of elevating a mortal to the rank of, and placing him among, "the gods;" deification.

2. Glorification; exaltation.

---

Then, a bit from the article:

---

It’s not only the Mormons who have thoughts about the divinization of mankind, but such a theme is even portrayed of our most beloved Founding Father and first President of our country, George Washington, in no less than oculus of the rotunda of the Capitol Building of the United States of America. ...

This image of Washington, painted in 1865, reflects a vision of Washington that appealed to the American public just after his death. The “apotheosis” served as a powerful symbol of the immortalization of the country’s hero. Paintings and sculptures of Washington’s celestial rise were soon to be found in living rooms and civic halls across the country. The religious connotation was clear: here was a man so virtuous and beloved that he surely had ascended to heaven, escorted honorably by classical personifications of freedom and liberty.
Read more...

---