131-044 Medieval and Renaissance Nuremberg

Usually 25 points of first year history, see Prerequisites, or first year art history, see Prerequisites.

This intensive four-week study abroad subject to be taught in Germany, involves a study of the imperial city of Nuremberg and its region, within the context of the social and political transformations of the 15th century, the religious changes and conflict of the 16th century Reformation, and the cultural self-consciousness, learning and magnificence associated with the Renaissance. Students will explore key architectural sites of the city and examine artists such as Albrecht Dürer and Hans Baldung Grien; and the sculptors Veit Stoss and Adam Kraft. This artistic production will be related to themes such as the city's links with imperial institutions, the patronage of powerful families, the impact of Reformation ideas and conflicts, the influence of the print media, and the role of new values and learning associated with humanism. Comparisons will also be made with other contemporary artistic centres in Nuremberg's immediate cultural region, to which there will be excursions.