Drawing inspiration from literature and theater, Eugène Delacroix developed a long-standing interest in the writer Johann Wolfgang von Goethe (1749–1832). He completed a series of prints based on the famous Faust and seven lithographs, including this one, from Goetz of Berlichingen. Goetz’s reputation as a noble knight spread so far that even the gypsies declared their loyalty to him and provided him with aid. Goethe highly praised Delacroix’s interpretations of scenes from his plays, such as this one.