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This course provides a broad overview of the history of painting in Western Europe. It offers an introduction to critical art appreciation and, by tracing major developments over 600 years, provides a comprehensive foundation for the study of European painting from the time of Giotto, through the Renaissance and Baroque periods to the achievements of the Impressionists and Post-Impressionists in the late nineteenth century. The development of art in Britain will also be discussed. Guided visits to local art collections will be included in the course.

Blocks 1 and 2

Tuesdays, 10.00-12.00

None

None

None

Written presentation 20%; Written compare and contrast presentation 20%; Essay 40%; Visual test 20%.

The aims of the course are to:

■ Provide an introduction to the discipline of art history through the study of European painting, 1300-1900.

■ Present European painting within the cultural and historical context of Europe.

■ Study the principles and techniques of major European painters.

■ Study the changing role of the arts in society of the period.

By the end of the course, students should be able to:

■ Demonstrate a broad knowledge and critical appreciation of the development of Western European Painting from 1300 to 1900.

■ Identify and understand different artistic movements and styles, recognising the changing role of art in society throughout this time.

■ Write coherently and perceptively on major artists and works of art covered in the course.

■ Discuss orally with some confidence major paintings covered in the course.

■ 5. Acquire personal study skills and basic skills in art historical research methods. 6. Demonstrate the ability to pursue personal investigation of a painting or theme using library, museum and gallery resources.

Students must submit at least 75% by weight of the components (including examinations) of the course's summative assessment.