Last modified: 24 May 2018 12:12
This course will examine the exquisite art of northern British Isles from seventh to ninth centuries. It will show how the introduction of Christianity both from Ireland and Rome, produced a creative cultural melting pot in which artistic designs from Ireland, Pictland and Northumbria fused into the Insular Style. Technology, literary sources, historical and liturgical evidence are all required to interpret this dramatic era of transition form paganism to Christianity. Highlights are the Book of Kells, Lindisfarne Gospels, Tara Brooch, the Pictish stones. Some fieldtrips. Will appeal to students of Archaeology, Celtic, History, English, as well as Art Historians.
Study Type | Undergraduate | Level | 4 |
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Term | Second Term | Credit Points | 30 credits (15 ECTS credits) |
Campus | None. | Sustained Study | No |
Co-ordinators |
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The course begins with an examination of a range of metalwork, developing a vocabulary of technical terms and understanding of status and function. Art will be used as a tool to explore the political, social and religious context of the 5th-9th centuries.Various roles of patronage, secular and religious are examined. The function and design of the great Insular manuscripts are explored: the Lindisfarne Gospels and Book of Kells. The style and development of sculpture, particularly in Pictland and Ruthwell will be analysed. An approach will be made to methods of dating objects in this era.
Information on contact teaching time is available from the course guide.
1st Attempt: 2 written assignments of 3,500 words (30% each); 1 visual-based test of one hour (30%); class participation (10%).
There will be interactive feedback on class participation. Essays will be handed back individually with comment.
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