Special Topics in the Humanities (370-4-30)

Topic

Monsters, Art, & Civilization

Instructors

Ann C Gunter
847/467-0873
Kresge 4333

Meeting Info

Kresge Centennial Hall 2-343: Mon, Wed 2:00PM - 3:20PM

Overview of class

Griffins, sphinxes, demons, and other fabulous creatures appear frequently in the art of ancient Egypt, Mesopotamia, and the Eastern Mediterranean world. They stand at the intersection of the normal and abnormal, the natural and unnatural. Why did these images become so widespread, and what cultural functions did they serve? Can we connect their invention and dissemination with key moments in human history and cross-cultural interaction? What was the role of material representations of the supernatural in preventing and healing disease and other human misfortunes?

This course explores the supernatural subject in ancient art with new perspectives drawn from art history, history, anthropology, cognitive science, and archaeology. We will examine a wide range of objects and representations (including sculptures, figurines, seals, amulets, and other media) along with ancient texts that help us understand their meaning and function.

Class Materials (Required)

No textbook required.

Class Attributes

Historical Studies Foundational Discipline
Historical Studies Distro Area