ART 351 Ancient and Classical Art
This cultural history seminar presents Ancient Near Eastern, Egyptian, and ancient Greek and Roman art and architecture within their broader material, intellectual, and cultural contexts. The course is focused around key interdisciplinary themes in ancient history, such as the use and exploration of myths; the artistic development and philosophical implications of the human figure; the role and representation in art of women; the role and representation of slaves; the construction of the trope of the hero; daily life in ancient Greece and Rome; the artistic and political significance of Roman painting, portraiture, and architecture; and the influence of ancient art on modern art. We will focus on contemporary developments in the field, such as the discovery and restitution of antiquities, and consult with experts in protecting and selling antiquities. We will capitalize on the extraordinary collections of ancient art at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Through readings, meetings with experts, and first-hand contact with art, students will develop a well-rounded understanding of ancient culture; they will also be exposed to some of the many exciting professional applications of their classroom education and research.