Course Description
This course explores the life and work of Michelangelo, one of the most revolutionary, respected, and influential Renaissance artists. We focus on four main and interrelated areas, and the dynamic relationships between them: painting, sculpture, architecture, and drawing. Most weeks, we meet once in the classroom, to look, from many points of view, at Michelangelo’s works, working process, interactions with patrons, and his impact on other artists. Then, we meet on site, to explore his works in person in museums, churches, piazzas, and other sites. Other important components of the course are group discussions of the readings, and presentations of student research and creative projects.Course Objectives and Learning Outcomes
Below are the course’s learning outcomes, followed by the methods that will be used to assess students’ achievement for each learning outcome. By the end of this course, students will be able to:
- express what they see in Michelangelo’s works with greater precision and accurate terms (Intermediate Tests, Reading Presentation, Class Discussion)
- identify the materials and techniques employed by Michelangelo, and explain the impact of these aspects on the appearance of the final works (Mid-Term Exam, Final Exam, Term Paper)
- explain the function and message of Michelangelo’s major works (Mid-Term Exam, Final Exam, Term Paper, Class Discussion)
- distinguish between documented facts and interpretative perception of Michelangelo’s life and works (Reading Review, Term Paper, Class Discussion)
- Professor: Alana O'Brien