An introduction to the art of Egypt, Greece, Rome, and the European Middle Ages. Works of painting, sculpture, and architecture are presented chronologically and interpreted within their particular historical circumstances. The course focuses on themes such as the social and ideological functions of art, strategies of realism and abstraction, rhetorics of the material and immaterial, patronage and the construction of viewing, etc. It enables students to acquire the perceptual and critical skills to enjoy, interpret, and question works of art. Like 11, this course is recommended for potential majors and for students in other disciplines, both humanities and sciences.

This course is an examination of ancient art from the Prehistoric through the Medieval periods (with a focus on and questioning of the Western perspective). You will be introduced to major (and minor) artifacts and works of art and architecture from various time periods and regions and asked to reflect on their artistic significance, visual rhetoric and cultural context. As you are acquainted with different ways of looking at and interpreting art, you will develop your own critical sense of art history. Through exploring an assortment of paintings, sculptures and buildings from various perspectives, you will learn to develop and refine your ideas about art through writing and class assignments. In this way you will deepen your understanding and appreciation of some of the most iconic works of art from the ancient (Western) world.

Repeat Rules

Course is not repeatable for credit.

Requirements class fulfills