Art 110: ART HISTORY: PREHISTORIC TO GOTHIC
Honors – Fall 2013
Signs and Symbols in Ancient Art
CRN: 99892, T/Th
12:45 – 2:10, Rm G102
Instructor: Denise Rogers
Phone: 619-388-2371
e-mail address: derogers@sdccd.edu
Office Hours: T 2:10 -3:10 Rm: G247
InstructorÕs web page: http://homework.sdmesa.edu/drogers(click on appropriate course #)
Blackboard page: https://sdccd.blackboard.com/webapps/login/(access this site to submit assignments and check grades)
COURSE DESCRIPTION:
ARTF 110 Art History: Prehistoric to Gothic This course is a
survey of the visual arts in western civilization from prehistory through the
Gothic period. Emphasis is placed on representative art and architecture from
Mesopotamia, Iran, Egypt, the Aegean, Etruscan, Rome and Greece. This course is
intended for art majors and all students interested in art history, the
humanities and culture. Associate Degree Credit & transfer to CSU. CSU
General Education. IGETC. UC Transfer Course List.
The honors component of the course will broaden the scope of the class by focusing on the study of the construction and representation of icons. Because the works of art covered in this course are closely tied to culture, the study of the development of archetypes is an element of a standard art history course, however, the focus of this course will be to study the construction, history, and cross-cultural use of particular icons. The study of these icons relate to a variety of themes that allow for an interdisciplinary approach to the class. For example, religious/spiritual belief systems are communicated through a system of symbols. These symbols then enable the establishment of group ideologies that in turn dictate the use or misuse of symbols that influence social roles, politics and other cultural aspects of a particular community. We will follow the development and transformation of particular archetypes across cultures and analyze the manner in which they are received and distributed via works of art. These archetypes manifest in early rock paintings and continue through the rise of the Christian era as displayed on Gothic Cathedrals. The lecture component as well as individual and group presentations by students will focus on particular symbols that demonstrate dominant symbols of a particular group or region but will also expand across cultures. Students will also choose a particular area of focus and present to the class. Additional readings will be chosen by students in these areas that directly relate to specific works of art. In addition to identifying individual images, students will be tested on their ability to identify symbols and analyze the manner in which they are incorporated into works of art. Students in essence will be learning a new language, a system of signs, and how these signs help to shape cultural ideologies across cultures.
Sample iconographic themes include (to be expanded):
Paleolithic symbols (Goddess, Animal, Abstract)
Religious/Mythological iconography
Objects and artifacts
Animal and plant forms
Gendered archetypes
Astronomical bodies
Symbols of Power
Abstract shapes and forms
STUDENT LEARNING OBJECTIVES
1. Assess and explain the significance of
visual expression and use of materials in prehistoric art.
2. Analyze the artistic transition from cave
dwellers to early civilization and the development of settlements, towns and
cities.
3. Compare and contrast world views as
expressed through art found in Mesopotamia, Egypt, Sudan and Iran.
4. Assess the role of Greek sculpture and
architecture in the rise of Hellenistic art and art in western civilization.
5. Define Roman art and explain Roman
contributions to architecture and urban development.
6. Identify and analyze the connections between
Islamic art and western European art.
7. Evaluate the role of art in society and
politics throughout the Medieval era.
8. Identify examples of Gothic architecture
and assess the ways in which it was influenced by new technologies and building
innovations.
STUDENT LEARNING OUTCOMES
1.
Students will be
able to identify and analyze stylistic
characteristics of art and architecture from each of the selected groups and
period styles from the prehistoric to gothic periods.
2.
Students will be
able to critically analyze the form and content of art and architecture during
the prehistoric to gothic periods with emphasis on their cultural and
historical significance.
3.
Students will be
able to evaluate the various technologies utilized by various cultural groups
during the prehistoric to gothic periods that demonstrate developments in the
creation of art and architecture.
After completing this course the student will be able to demonstrate their ability to differentiate between art periods and styles, from the Paleolithic period through the Gothic. The student will also be able to discuss the cultural and historical factors that influence art, and demonstrate their ability to critically analyze these works. As a result, the student will gain a greater appreciation of art and the powerful affect it has and continues to have on society as a whole.
STUDENT RESPONSIBILITY
I will take attendance at the beginning of class for the first 2 weeks of the semester. After the first two weeks of class I will pass around a sign in sheet. You must sign in on the corresponding day at the beginning of each class meeting. If you miss class or leave class early you will receive an X next to your name and will be considered absent for that day. If you must be absent please leave a message on my voice mail or e-mail me ahead of time and your absence will be excused. If there is an emergency or unexpected event that prevents you from letting me know you will be absent ahead of time you must bring in proof of your absence (i.e. doctorÕs note, tow receipt, etc.) Excessive absences (3 unexcused or excessive excused absences) will result in a lower grade for the class and you may also being dropped from the course. I will not repeat lectures. It is your responsibility to get notes from your classmates if you miss class. Take notes during class lectures and do the reading assignments prior to coming to class. You are responsible for studying the works of art in the text but you will only be tested on those discussed in class and also in your textbook. I will frequently present questions to the class for discussion, these questions may also appear on the exam.
If for some reason you decide to no longer participate in
the course, it is the your responsibility to officially drop the course (see
class schedule for drop/withdrawal dates). Students who remain enrolled in a
class beyond the published withdrawal deadline, as stated in the class
schedule, will receive an evaluative letter grade in this class.
REQUIRED READING
RECOMMENDED READING (for research paper and exam
essays):
Barnet, Sylvan. A Short Guide to Writing About Art, any edition. New York: Longman (will be useful when we reach the Greek, Roman and Christian sections of the course)
Hall, James. Dictionary of Subjects and Symbols in Art.
Boulder CO: Westview Press, 2008.
ADDITIONAL REFERENCE READINGS (ADDITIONAL READINGS WILL BE POSTED ON CLASS
WEBSITE)
Baring, Anne and Jules Cashford. The Myth of the Goddess:
Evolution of an Image. New York: Penguin, 1991.**
Bal, Mieke and N. Bryson, ÒSemiotics and Art History.: in:
The Art of Art History: A Critical Anthology. D. Preziosi ed. 2009.**
Battistini, Matilde, Symbols and allegories in Art,
Los Angeles: Getty Publications, 2003.
-
Astrology, Magic, and Alchemy in Art, Los Angeles,
Getty Publications, 2007.
Beard, M. ÒAdopting an Approach IIÓ, in Looking at
Greek Vases (1991) ed. T.
Ramussen and N. Spivey pp.12-35.**
Clark, R.T. Myth and Symbol in Ancient Egypt. New
York: Thames and Hudson, 1991.
Damisch, H. ÒSemiotics and IconologyÓ, in: The Art of
Art History: A Critical Anthology. D. Preziosi ed. (1998), New York: Oxford
University Press, 2009.**
De Capoa, Chiara, Old Testament Figures in Art, Los
Angeles: Getty Publications, 2003.
Dorra, Henri, ed. Symbolist Art Theories: A Critical
Anthology. Berkeley: University of
California Press, 1993.**
Ferguson, George, Signs & Symbols in Christian Art,
New York: Oxford University Press, 1961.
Giorgi, Rosa, Angels and Demons in Art, Los Angeles:
Getty Publications, 2005.
Impelluso, Lucia, Gods and Heroes in Art, Los
Angeles: Getty Publications, 2003.
Malaguzzi, Silvia, Food and Feasting in Art, Los
Angeles: Getty Publications, 2008.
Owusu, Heiki, Egyptian Symbols. New York: Sterling
Publishers, 2008.
Panofsky, Erwin, Studies in Iconology: Humanistic Themes
in the Art of the Renaissance. London: Oxford University Press, 1939.**
Van Straten, Roelof, An Introduction to Iconography:
Symbols, Allusions and Meaning in the Visual Arts. New York: Routledge,
1994.
GRADING/EVALUATION SYSTEM:
4 Exams (100 points each) 400 points Final Grade Scale: A (90-100%) = 788-875
1 Research paper 100 points B (80-89%) = 700-788
1 Museum/Gallery assignment 100 points C (70-79%) = 613-699
4 Reading critiques 100 points D (60-69%) = 525-612
Group discussions (reading)
50 points F (0-59%) = 0-524
Individual Presentations
50 points
On/Off Campus
Lecture
25 points
Attendance
50 points
Total 875 points
EXAM FORMAT:
1. 10 slide identifications as follows: period/culture/artist, title of the work, style, medium, and location for architecture. In addition, I will ask you to answer one question in relation to the work shown. This question will be covered in lecture or information taken directly from the textbook. (30 points)
2. 5 Terms taken from terminology sheet handed out before each exam. Definitions can be found throughout the text and in the glossary in the back of the book. When defining the terms on an exam they must be in your own words. (10 points)
3. 10 short answer questions taken from a short answer sheet handed out before each exam (answers come from in class discussions, readings, or lectures). You may use a 3x5 card during this portion of the exam to organize your answer. (20 points).
4. Answer a prepare-at-home essay question. I will provide a list of questions prior to the exam for you to study. You will have a chance to prepare the answers to these questions at home but write the essay in class. On the day of the exam I will present the same list of questions minus one (for example; if I give you a list of 6 questions 5 will appear on the exam). You will then choose ONE of the remaining questions to answer in class. You may use a 3x5 card during this portion of the exam to organize your answer. You may also bring in photocopies of the works of art to class so that you may refer to them while you answer the question. (40 points)
The exams are not cumulative but you will note that information covered from the very first day of class should be incorporated into information given during the entire course. A slide list, list of terms, and short essay questions will be handed out prior to the exams to aid in studying. If you miss class when passed out, make sure you check with me to receive copies.
Exam Dates:
1st Exam: Chapters 1-3 September 19 100 points
2nd Exam: Chapters 4 & 5 October 15 100 points
3rd Exam: Chapters 6-8 November 12 100 points
4th Exam: Chapters 9, 15-17 December 12 100 points
Optional Cumulate Online Final December 10-16 (100 points)
(Optional final can only be taken to make up exam or replace exam score and cannot be taken for extra credit points)
EVERYONE MUST TAKE ALL FOUR EXAMS. If you miss an exam you have the option of taking the online cumulative final. Make-up exams are given only in cases of unforeseen circumstances AND you can bring in proof that you could not be in class on the day of the exam (ex. airline ticket, doctorÕs note, tow truck receipt).
If you have a need for any in-class accommodations or
special test-taking arrangements because of a physical or perceptual
limitation, please speak with me during the first two weeks of the semester.
READING CRITIQUES (everyone must turn in a reading
critique)
The reading critiques consist of a written critique of an assigned article or book chapter that will be made available on my website. A critique consists of a precise reading of the sections, highlighting the major points that support the authorÕs thesis, and works of art used as examples to support the thesis (a reading critique guideline form is available on the course website). These readings will help when writing your essays and research paper so the readings are necessary to complete these assignments.
Reading Critique Due Dates (see instructorÕs website for
readings):
Reading #1 September 17
Reading #2 October 10
Reading #3 November 7
Reading
#4 December
10
GROUP DISCUSSION OF READINGS
(15 minutes)
With the completion of each reading
critique, a group of students will lead
a discussion of the reading with the rest of the class. The groups will develop 4-5 questions for the
class to discuss and supplement with images covered in the readings. The
students will demonstrate an understanding of the reading by addressing the
questions in the reading critique guidelines and create questions that are
specific to that particular reading to elaborate on the particular methodology
under discussion. YOU MUST TURN IN YOUR QUESTIONS POSED TO THE CLASS
AS WELL AS YOUR WRITTEN CRITIQUE TO RECEIVE CREDIT FOR THE PRESENTATION.
Group#1: September 17
Group #2: October 10
Group #3: November 7
Group #4: December 10
INDIVIDUAL PRESENTATIONS: (10
minutes)
The individual presentation is a
proposal for your thematic research paper.
Therefore your theme, chosen works of art, and iconographical analysis must be
in the form of a sample thesis presentation that you will go on to develop into
the research paper. Presentations must consist of an iconographical analysis of a work of art. The following are some
brief guidelines for the presentations:
Sample Organization of
Presentation:
Dates of Presentations: (you must
sign up for a particular day and it cannot be the same date as your group
presentation)
First Presentations: September 17
Second Presentations: October 10
Third Presentations: November 7
Fourth Presentations: December 10
THEMATIC RESEARCH PAPER (see research paper handout
for tips on themes)
The thematic research paper is a minimum of TEN double-spaced typed pages (not including bibliography) and consist of an iconographical analysis relating to a theme selected by the student relating to a period/cultural group covered in class. You must demonstrate knowledge of the particular work of a culture, artist, period, style or subject matter selected as it relates to your theme. The paper should be a critical analysis of the work (compare/contrast paper is best), but an informational paper is also acceptable but you will not receive the same grade as a critical paper. A bibliography of a MINIMUM of 3 sources should be at the end of your paper. Only 1 of these sources can be a random Internet search (this does not include reliable Internet sources (museums, etc. or online books and journals)). The remaining sources must be books or journal articles from a library (the textbook cannot be used as one of your sources).
Paper due dates:
Hand in thematic topic for your paper: October 22 (if you have not presented your topic in class)
Early hand in for review November 21
Final paper due: December 5
The 100 points are based on fulfilling the requirements for the assignment. If you hand in your paper prior to or on November 21st, I will grade it and return it to you the next class meeting. You may either keep that grade or improve upon it (if necessary) and hand it back to me on the actual due date for re-grading. LATE ASSIGNMENTS WILL BE MARKED DOWN ONE LETTER GRADE FOR EACH CLASS MEETING LATE In case of extreme emergency verification will be required. The final paper is due on December 5.
MUSEUM/GALLERY ASSIGNMENT
You are required to go to a museum, gallery, or visit a public work and complete a list of questions (to be handed out at a later date). The object to be viewed must be from the time period covered in class (Prehistoric – Gothic). A list of museums is available on my website. The assignment is due by the day of the FINAL (worth 100 points).
*This assignment can be combined with the Research paper (your paper will average between 12-14 pages)
ON/OFF CAMPUS LECTURE
Students must attend an on or off campus lecture relating to the art I will announce these lectures in class (online videos of lectures will also fulfill this requirement, however I must approve of the video). After attending the lecture students will write a one-page critique (opinion paper) discussing the content of the lecture and your overall impression of the event.
Cheating/Plagiarism:
If you are caught cheating on an exam or plagiarizing on a paper you will be warned and receive a 0 for the assignment. You will not have the opportunity to make up the points. If you are caught cheating a second time you will not pass the course and your name may be forwarded to the Dean of Academic Affairs.
STUDY SUGGESTIONS
In order to be successful in the course follow these guidelines:
- Attend class and take notes (not all information covered in class is in the textbook)
- Read the chapters prior to coming to class (this will help when studying and memorizing images)
- Keep track of where we are in the class, what was covered during each class meeting, and any adjustments to the syllabus.
- Make sure you have all handouts.
- Review images frequently, donÕt wait until the night before to memorize images (they will begin to look the same) (flashcards are very helpful)
- Complete all homework assignments
- Turn in assignments on time (late assignments are penalized)
EXTRA CREDIT OPTIONS
The following is a list of extra credit options for the course:
1. Volunteering for Art Walk (see web site: http://www.artwalkonthebay.org/volunteers.htm )20 points
2. Extra museum assignment worth up to 10 points (2 extra maximum - 20 points maximum)
3. Extra paper worth up to 20 points (1 maximum – 20 points maximum)
4. Art exhibition/lectures/on-campus events (written critique). (5 points)
You should follow the same guidelines you received for the required assignment. I will keep you informed of exhibitions, lectures, and on-campus events. When you attend you must write and turn in a critique (approx. 1 page) of the event. ALL EXTRA CREDIT IS DUE BY THE DAY OF THE FINAL
Class
Schedule and Reading Assignments (subject to change)
August 20: Introduction to the course (periods, terms, styles).
Begin
1st reading critique and prepare for group presentation
Sign
up for Individual and Group Presentations
August 22: Chapter 1: Prehistoric Art
August 27: Chapter 1: Prehistoric Art (cont.)
Chapter 2: The Art of the Ancient Near East.
August 29: Chapter 2: The Art of the Ancient Near East. (cont.)
September 3: Chapter 3: Art of Ancient Egypt: PreDynastic; Old Kingdom.
Video: Ancient Egypt
September 5: Chapter
3: Art of Ancient Egypt: PreDynastic; Old
Kingdom.
September 10: Chapter 3: Art of Ancient Egypt: PreDynastic; Old Kingdom.
September 12: Chapter 3: Art of Ancient Egypt: Middle Kingdom; New Kingdom.
Review
Exam #1
September 17: 1ST
READING CRITIQUE DUE
1st
GROUP PRESENTATIONS
1st
INDIVIDUAL PRESENTATIONS
September 19: EXAM
#1: CHAPTERS 1, 2, AND 3
September 24: Chapter
4: Art of the Ancient Aegean: Cycladic;
Minoan; Mycenean.
Begin
2nd reading critique and prepare for group presentation
September 26 VIDEO:
Art of the Western World: The Classical Ideal
Chapter
5: Art of Ancient Greece. Pottery: Geometric/Orientalizing, Archaic, Classical and
Hellenistic
October 1: Chapter 5: Art of Ancient Greece. Sculpture: Geometric/Orientalizing, Archaic, Classical and Hellenistic
October 3: Chapter
5: Art of Ancient Greece. Sculpture: Geometric/Orientalizing, Archaic, Classical and
Hellenistic
October 8: Chapter
5: Art of Ancient Greece
Architecture: Geometric/Orientalizing,
Archaic, Classical and Hellenistic.
October 10: 2nd READING CRITIQUE DUE
2nd
GROUP PRESENTATIONS
2nd
INDIVIDUAL PRESENTATIONS
October 15: EXAM
#2 CHAPTERS 4 AND 5
October 17: Chapter
6: Etruscan and Roman Art
Begin
3rd reading critique and prepare for group presentation
October 22: PAPER
TOPIC DUE (if you have not presented in class)
Video: The Classical Ideal: Rome
Chapter
6: Roman Art: The Republic
October 24: Chapter
6: Roman Art: Augustus, Roman Painting,
Sculpture & Architecture
October 29: Chapter 6: Roman Art: Architecture
October 31: Chapter
7: Jewish and Early Christian Art
Chapter
8: Byzantine Art: Early Byzantine, Iconoclasm
November 5: Chapter
8: Byzantine Art: Late Byzantine
November 7: 3rd
READING CRITIQUE DUE
3rd
GROUP PRESENTATIONS
3rd INDIVIDUAL PRESENTATIONS
November 12: EXAM
#3 (Chapters 6-8)
November 14: Chapter
9: Islamic Art
Video:
Art of Islam
Begin
4th reading critique and prepare for group presentation
November 19: Chapter
15: Early Medieval Art in Europe
November 21: PAPER
OPTIONAL EARLY HAND IN DATE
Chapter
16: Romanesque Art
November 25-29: HOLIDAY- THANKSGIVING BREAK – NO CLASSES
December 3: Chapter 16: Romanesque Art (cont.)
Chapter 17: Gothic Europe: French Gothic Art
December 5: THEMATIC RESEARCH PAPERS DUE
Chapter
17: Gothic Europe: French Gothic Art
December 10: 4th READING CRITIQUE DUE
4th GROUP PRESENTATIONS
4th
INDIVIDUAL PRESENTATIONS
December 12: FINAL
EXAM (Chapters 9, 15-17)
LAST
DAY TO TURN IN MUSEUM ASSIGNMENT
OPTIONAL
CUMULATIVE FINAL AVAILABLE ON BLACKBOARD until midnight (score can only be used
to replace a lower score or if you missed an exam)
HAPPY HOLIDAYS!