131-041 The Renaissance in Italy

Formerly available as 131-232/332. Students who have completed 131-232 or 131-332 are not eligible to enrol in this subject.

Usually 25 points of first year history, see Prerequisites.

This subject examines the social, political and cultural history of the many central and northern Italian towns which participated in the culture of the Renaissance, with special case studies of Florence and Venice. Major themes explored are politics and urbanisation; art, architecture and patronage; religion and popular beliefs; the family and gender roles; luxury and consumption; humanism and education. Students should complete this subject with a well-rounded picture of the Renaissance as a social and cultural context which has left a profound impact upon European culture of the succeeding centuries, including our own.

• demonstrate research skills through competent use of the library and other information sources;

• show critical thinking and analysis through recommended reading, essay writing and tutorial discussion, and by determining the strength of an argument;

• demonstrate understanding of social, ethical and cultural context through the contextualisation of judgements, developing a critical self-awareness, being open to new ideas and possibilities and by constructing an argument.

A tutorial journal of 1000 words 15% (due during the semester), a tutorial paper 25% (due during semester) and a research essay of 2000 words 60% (due during the examination period).

A subject reader will be available.