Course Details

This course will focus on women both as the subjects and the creators of art in the European and American traditions. It will be organized chronologically and thematically. This will involve a historical survey of women artists and their artistic contributions, as well as an examination of the religious, mythological and secular images of women in art. Extensive attention will be given to the creation, modification and persistence of these images throughout history, due to various social, economic, psychological and intellectual conditions. The class will include slide-illustrated lectures, weekly readings, a field trip and museum paper, one short-essay exam, film screenings and a research paper and presentation. All aspects of the course are intended to work together to create a conversation about artistic production and the role that this activity has played in the secular and sacred life of women throughout history.