Modern I (1789- 1945)

3 Credits · Level: Undergraduate

This course charts artistic responses to modernity in Europe and the United States, from the late eighteenth century to World War I and its immediate aftermaths. This long period of rapid change pushed artists to visualize, and grapple with, the emergent contradictions of modern life. With close attention to a wide range of media, especially painting, we will explore how art and visual culture were entwined with modern politics, urbanization, technology, imperialism, and globalization. We will read and discuss primary sources such as art criticism and artists’ manifestos, and we will learn how to draw on these resources to interpret artworks. Students will also learn how to discuss artworks in depth through several visits to archives and museums. This course is intended to be an introduction to art historical study and is suitable for those with no prior experience in art history.