This course is an overview of the material remains from a range of ancient and medieval cultures in Europe and the Middle East (and is complemented by History of Art 102, Renaissance to Modern Art; 103, Asian Art; and 108, African Art). Lectures focus on major works of art and architecture from the ancient world and Middle Ages and seek to establish specific historical contexts in which the monuments were produced and the particular religious and social functions they served. Discussion sections require active participation to re-enforce knowledge gained from lectures and assigned readings. There are three (45-minute) exams. Through lectures, discussion sections, reading assignments and exam preparations, students develop visual knowledge of major monuments of ancient and medieval art, a vocabulary for their description, analysis and interpretation, and a good understanding of the methods and aims of art historical study.
