How do mechanisms of perception structure responses to visual art? What is at stake when words describe images? By means of intensive looking, thinking, speaking, and writing, this course introduces the student to a series of problems and issues in the description and analysis of works of art. Because the course is also an introduction to the historical study of art, it is intended for students with no previous course work in the field. Satisfies the second half of the Reading and Composition requirement.

Illustrations of food -- sumptuous, simple, half-consumed, or yet to be hunted -- have been central to human art for at least forty thousand years. The centrality of food and drink to cultural identity and survival has lent it this enduring and global interest; the art of the ancient Mediterranean is no exception. Genres as disparate as mosaics, paintings, sculptures, and even monumental grave markers all depict food, each deploying their imagery toward radically different ends. This course considers the various roles of food and foodways in ancient Greek, Roman, and west-central Asian art. Through a close examination of art images and readings (both primary and secondary), students will develop the skills to analyze, interpret, and contextualize a variety of ancient art forms, all centered around the topic of food and drink. Peer review and in-class collaborative writing exercises are built into the course and designed to address different aspects of the research process. A series of scaffolded writing and research assignments will help students develop critical looking, thinking, reading, and research skills. This rigorous process will culminate in an original research paper of 10-12 pages.

Requisites

• UC Entry Level Writing Requirement, English 1A, or equivalent. Previously passed an R_A course with a letter grade of C- or better. Previously passed an articulated R_A course with a letter grade of C- or better. Score a 4 on the Advanced Placement Exam in English Literature and Composition. Score a 4 or 5 on the Advanced Placement Exam in English Language and Composition. Score of 5, 6, or 7 on the International Baccalaureate Higher Level Examination in English.

Repeat Rules

Course is not repeatable for credit.

Requirements class fulfills