This course will examine the history of Western art from approximately 1600 to approximately 1800—a period that bridges the gap from the Renaissance to the earliest days of the Modern era.
Beginning with the Baroque in Counter-Reformation Italy and concluding with Neoclassicism in the late 18th century, we will trace the stylistic developments in Europe and America through a variety of religious, political, and philosophical movements. The class begins with the Baroque, which was the immediate successor to the Renaissance and to Renaissance humanism, and we will examine this period by regions (Italy and Spain, the Netherlands, and France and England). Next, the course moves on to explore the development of two opposing styles that emerged in the 18th century: Rococo and Enlightenment art. The course culminates with Neoclassical art, its development in a politically turbulent France, and its spread into other Western cultures, including Italy, England, and the United States.
Crucial to this course is the emergence of characteristics (artistic, social, political, scientific, philosophical, and religious) that anticipate the issues faced by Modern society in the 18th century and after. Long-accepted institutions, such as the Catholic Church and the monarchy, reached their zenith in this environment and were ultimately challenged. Reading assignments and lectures will present an overview of this material, revealing the deep connection between a culture’s sociopolitical climate and its art. By the time you finish this course, you will be familiar with the most important art and artists of Western civilization from approximately 1600 to 1800. You will also have a greater understanding of the most important social and political debates of the time. Moreover, you will be able to explain and discuss the ways in which the themes, styles, and patronage of works of art relate to the social, political, and religious environments in which they were produced. The content covered in this course will prepare you to study Modern art in the West.
Course Requirements: Have completed Art Appreciation and Techniques, Introduction to Western Art History—Pre-Historic to High Gothic, and Introduction to Western Art History—Proto-Renaissance to Contemporary Art.
