The text introduces students to the methodologies of art history--formalism, iconography, etc.--to underscore the variety of approaches to art criticism.

Features:


Methodologies: The text introduces students to the methodologies of art history--formalism, iconography, etc.--to underscore the variety of approaches to art criticism.

Context essays and technique commentaries: Brief essays and definitions help students interpret artworks by offering cultural and historical background, and by explaining media and techniques. Examples include a discussion of mosaic technique; the principal gods of Mesopotamia, ancient Egypt, and Greece; the primary events in the life of Christ; literary excerpts from classics such as The Aneid, Beowulf, and The Divine Comedy.

Chapter-ending timelines: Ideal study aides, the timelines list everywork of art from the chapter, along with contemporary cultural events and thumbnails of the most significant works.