This course explores the rich cultural and political history of Italy. An introduction to Italy describes its unique geography and the major cities. Then in a review of its chequered history, we study how Italy developed through the Middle Ages as a set of separate states, and how many of these were continually victims of domination by major powers such as Austria, France and Spain. The Risorgimento brought them together in 1870, but still as a rather disunited Italy. In architecture, starting from the founding of Rome, we study the development of the City and its architecture, based on the Greek tradition and developing into the Classical standard. The Renaissance style, the Baroque and even Fascist styling are all part of the following art history. In a full review of Italian art, the course scope includes the flowering of the Renaissance in the 15th century and the great Renaissance artists of Florence (such as Botticelli), Rome (Michelangelo) and Venice (Titian).
Course aim
To explore the art, design and architecture of Italy from ancient times up to the current date, focusing on three beautiful and historic cities. Highlights will include the architecture of ancient Rome and the Renaissance in Florence and Venice.
Do I need any particular skills or experience?
- This course is for beginners and improvers
By the end of the course I should be able to:
- Identify which region of Italy led the mid-19th century drive for Risorgimento, i.e. Italian liberation and unification.
- Name the Florentine leader and patron of the arts under whom the early Renaissance flowered.
- Describe two of Michelangelo's most famous works, a Florentine statue and a Vatican ceiling.
- Name the author of "De Architectura", the master reference to Classical architecture handed down from ancient Rome.
- Name the two leading architects of early 15th century Florence who were rivals for the dome and the Baptistry doors of Florence cathedral.
What else do I need to know?
No prior knowledge is required.
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