Study day: Millet, Manet & Courbet - revolutionaries of realism

About this course

The course examines how Realism developed in nineteenth-century Europe and challenged academic traditions and the established art world. It focuses on Courbet and Millet, with particular attention to Manet’s innovations and the social and political context of controversial paintings. Through analysis of artworks, participants will consider Manet’s influence on artists including Degas and Caillebotte, as well as the contribution of Charles Baudelaire to the period’s ideas. The course also explores how Realist subject matter relates to its historical moment and to wider developments in art.

What you'll learn

• Explain the development and defining characteristics of nineteenth-century Realism
• Relate the subject matter of Realist paintings to their historical context
• Assess the significance of Realist artists in relation to artistic tradition and later developments

Is this course right for you?

The course is suitable for learners at all levels and involves looking closely at paintings, following straightforward written and spoken guidance, and contributing to group discussion. Participants should be able to follow demonstrations, handouts and health and safety information.

• No particular art-history level is specified
• Includes group discussion
• Requires participants to follow written and verbal instructions

Before you go

• Participants may wish to bring a notebook.
• Books from any reading list provided in class may be purchased.