Description
[Ancient/Medieval] This course will explore the Republic and Empire periods of the ancient Roman culture. In order to understand the meaning and importance of these objects for the Romans, these artworks will be discussed in terms of their cultural and historical contexts, with reference to pertinent political, social, religious, and cultural institutions. Paintings, mosaics, sculptures, monuments, bridges and buildings that span centuries and have endured for millennia express themes of leadership and propaganda, as well as the changing religion from polytheism to Christianity in the Late Empire. Students will read primary resources preserved in Latin, as well as texts of great Roman writers who spoke of these visual arts traditions. The preservation of Greek art forms by the Romans, as well as the inspiration to later cultures will be addressed, and the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art collection will be incorporated into the course.