Debates in Art History

About this course

The course examines four areas of art history: form and style, gender and politics, the significance of the artist, and mechanisms of meaning. Lectures introduce different approaches, while seminars use selected texts to explore their ideas in greater detail. Participants consider how art historical writing relates to its historical context and undertake close reading alongside independent critical reflection. Assessment consists of a compulsory course journal and a two-hour unseen examination.

What you'll learn

• Explain a range of art historical approaches and methods.
• Relate art historical ideas and methods to their historical contexts.
• Analyse art historical writing through close reading of key texts.
• Discuss theoretical approaches and their implications in seminar settings.

Is this course right for you?

The course is labelled All Levels and combines lectures, seminars, close reading and independent reflection. Learners should be prepared to engage with challenging ideas, complete a course journal and undertake an unseen examination. Informal group meetings and online discussion are recommended.

• Includes independent thought and critical reflection as part of the course structure.
• Participation alongside undergraduate and postgraduate students is part of the learning setting.