107-048 Art, Society & Ritual in Medieval Italy

Usually 12.5 points of first-year art history.

The emphasis of this subject is on the visual material associated with devotional practices and civic and religious rituals within the broad social framework of 13th and 14th century Italy. It considers the form and function of the artwork in relation to its inherent social and ritual context. Specific works will be examined in order to ascertain the various meanings they conveyed to the original patrons and a broader audience. Students should complete the subject with a knowledge of key works of 13th and 14th century Italian art and architecture, and an understanding of the importance of certain civic and religious rituals for a contextual interpretation of the work of art.

• be able to research through the competent use of the library and other information sources, and be able to define areas of inquiry and methods of research in the preparation of essays;

• be able to conceptualise theoretical problems, form judgements and arguments and communicate critically, creatively and theoretically through essay writing, tutorial discussion and presentations;

• be able to communicate knowledge intelligibly and economically through essay writing and tutorial discussion;

• be able to manage and organise workloads for recommended reading, the completion of essays and assignments and examination revision;

• be able to participate in team work through involvement in syndicate groups and group discussions.

An essay of 2000 words, a class paper of 1000 words and a visual test equivalent to 1000 words.