ARTH 217 - Ancient and Early Medieval Art: from Augustus to Charlemagne

FC ARHU

4 credits
This course studies art’s place in the epochal change from classical antiquity to the Middle Ages. We begin in the mid-1st century BCE, as Augustus assumed power, and continue through the Christianization of the Empire in the 4th century up to its consolidation under Charlemagne in the 9th. We address ancient monuments such as the Forum and the Pantheon, the invention and development of Christian iconography and architecture in dialogue with pagan and Jewish art, Byzantine icons and iconoclasm, and the earliest Islamic architecture. A particular focus will be on changing use of cities and buildings. Field trip required.
Prerequisites & Notes: A 100-Level ARTS course or the consent of the instructor.