ARTH 275 Early Christian and Medieval Art

An introduction to the major works and issues of the period through an examination of key moments in Europe and the Mediterranean basin, from c. 300 CE to 1500 CE. A study of the forms, language, and uses of medieval visual culture will be related to the circumstances associated with the demise of the Roman Empire, migrations of Northern European peoples, the increasing power of secular rulers, the development of monasticism, and the theological perspective of the Roman Christian Church. Art and architecture associated with contemporary monotheistic religions (Judaism, Islam) will also be considered.