Classics 172A. Early Greek Art and Architecture (4 units) [cross-listed with AHI 172A]
Alexandra Sofroniew
Course Description:
This course examines the art and architecture of the ancient Greek world from the time of Homer to the flowering of democracy in Athens (roughly 800-450 BCE), a period of artistic innovation - such as the development of naturalism (artists depicting lifelike humans and animals), advances in bronze casting and marble carving, and the invention of the three architectural orders: Doric, Ionic and Corinthian - that shaped western and global culture and continue to be visible in the world around us today, over 2500 years later. We will learn to look at and interpret many different types of artwork, including statues, painted pottery, mosaics, silverware, and architectural and funerary sculpture. And we will learn to carefully consider the context of these objects: the anonymous craftsmen that made them, the customers who bought and used them, and the people who viewed them in their houses, temples, cemeteries and cities.
No prior knowledge of art or ancient Greek history is required.
Prerequisite: None.
GE credit (New): Arts & Humanities, Visual Literacy and Writing Experience.
Format: Lecture - 3 hours; Term Paper.