Unit information: Theorising the Object in 2020/21

Unit name	Theorising the Object
Unit code	HART20035
Credit points	20
Level of study	I/5
Teaching block(s)	Teaching Block 1 (weeks 1 - 12)
Unit director	Dr. Dent
Open unit status	Not open
Pre-requisites	None
Co-requisites	None
School/department	Department of History of Art (Historical Studies)
Faculty	Faculty of Arts

Description including Unit Aims

The unit aims to familiarize students with a range of theories and art-historical methods that can be used for constructing a history of visual art, for interpreting meaning in art, or for setting limits on that act of interpretation. We will explore the way in which the discipline of art history has developed, by studying differing views of art and of art history from the Renaissance onwards, and how these came to be formulated into methods of studying art systematically. The unit will centre on issues of methodology and will have a strong textual base. As well as offering an overview of developments over time, the unit will also examine the individual methodologies of a handful of key art historians.

Aims:

This unit is designed to give students a broad understanding of significant aspects of the development of the history of art as an academic discipline, and of the theories and theoretical perspectives relating to the current practice of history of art. To make students aware that the discipline of History of Art has a history and to highlight the range of theoretical models underpinning the subject. To familiarize students with the main methodologies which have shaped the discipline as historical in the sense that they view or construct art (a) as having its own, internal history, or (b) as something that is determined by a wider social and political history; and to develop students awareness of the interpretative theories of art and their application and applicability to art history.

Intended Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:

1. demonstrate knowledge of the principal histories and theories of art;
2. evaluate the underlying assumptions in different kinds of art-historical approaches, together with the ability to assess the advantages and shortcomings of competing methodologies;
3. apply different approaches and methodologies in the analysis of works of art;
4. express their ideas at a level appropriate to Level I/5, in both written and verbal forms

Teaching Information

Classes will involve a combination of long- and short-form lectures, class discussion, investigative activities, and practical activities. Students will be expected to engage with readings and participate on a weekly basis. This will be further supported with drop-in sessions and self-directed exercises with tutor and peer feedback.

Assessment Information

One timed assessment (100%) [ILOs 1-4]

Reading and References

• Michael Hatt and Charlotte Klonk, Art History: A Critical Introduction to its Methods (Manchester, MUP, 2006).
• Anne D'Alleva, Methods and Theories of Art History (London, L. King, 2005)
• Steve Edwards (ed.), Art and its Histories: a Reader (Princeton NJ, Yale University Press, 1999)
• Eric Fernie (ed.), Art History and its Methods (London, Phaidon, 1995)
• Michael Podro, The Critical Historians of Art (Yale University Press, 1982).