First-Year Seminar: Medieval Venice

3 units

This course will introduce students to the unique culture and artistic achievements of the Venetian republic from the Middle Ages through the Renaissance. After establishing the governmental, social, and religious foundations of the republic and the economic basis of its fabulous wealth, we will look at the expression of its religious and historical identity in architecture, painting and sculpture, its response to the humanistic movement, its literature, the role of music in society and in the church, and the unique role of Carnival in Venetian life. Course is for first-year, non-transfer students only.