107-406 Readings in Caravaggio

Admission to the postgraduate diploma or fourth-year honours in art history.

This subject examines the life, work and influence of a painter whose significance is attributable as much to issues of artistic identity as it is to his art. It will consider Caravaggio's formation and early background and will examine the primary documents relating to his life and career. Attention will be directed to early responses to Caravaggio from patrons and collectors, artists and early writers on baroque art. Students will also explore the process of transmission and reinterpretation of Caravaggio's work, ranging from his influence on painters during his own lifetime to treatments of his life and art in contemporary film, literature and art. Students should complete the subject with an understanding of the varying methodologies used to interpret the work of Caravaggio and his followers, and of the social and theoretical issues arising from the study of their paintings.

• 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.

A 2000 words class paper 40% (due during the semester) and 3000 word research essay 50% (due in the examination period), and class participation 10%. A minimum 75% attendance at tutorials is also expected as a hurdle requirement in order to pass the subject.