Course Catalogue

View Specification Document

This course investigates Baroque art with special focus on the drama and intensity of its expressions in Italy and Spain, though comparisons with other areas of Europe, such as Portugal and France, will also be considered. The course looks primarily at painting but it will also cover architecture and sculpture. This is illustrated through an assessment of artists such as Caravaggio and Velázquez, and of their legacy. Because of its renowned theatricality, the cultural aspects of this style will be also highlighted. The course offers a comprehensive analysis of the visual feast that is synonymous with Baroque art.  

Block 2

2 hours per week for 10 weeks

For timetable details, please see our web pages at University of Glasgow - Study - Short courses

Some previous knowledge of art history is desirable but not essential.

None

None

1. Essay (approximately 2000 words) from a choice of titles (70%).

2. Visual test in class: identification, comparison and discussion of slides (30%) (Alternative assessment can be arranged for students whose disabilities would prevent them performing satisfactorily in the visual test).

This course aims to:

■ Develop students' basic knowledge of art history through the focussed analysis of Baroque art in southern Europe during the 17th century.

■ Develop students' critical awareness of the subject by identifying the stylistic and cultural components of Baroque art in southern Europe, examining its relationship to Renaissance art and its place within the broader context of the Baroque.

■ Introduce students to some of the issues of methodology, historiography and context which are associated with this area of study.

■ Foster further transferable skills such as visual skills, independent learning and written presentation skills.

By the end of this course students will be able to:

■ Demonstrate in writing, a comprehensive knowledge of Baroque art in southern Europe and its contribution to the development of European art. 

■ Critically analyse and interpret Baroque art in southern Europe, in terms of its imagery, function, methods of production and stylistic and cultural components.

■ Identify and evaluate art historical approaches to, and interpretations of, individual works of Baroque art in southern Europe. 

■ Demonstrate personal study skills in art-historical research and the ability to pursue investigation of a work of art or a 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.