Introduction to aesthetics
Dirk Baltzly
8 points * 3 hours per week * First semester * Clayton * Prerequisites: Available to later-year students in any faculty
This subject is intended to cater for people interested in any of the following: philosophy, music, visual arts, literature. The subject will include (i) Theories of the nature of `art' and the `work of art'. Variations according to the art form (that is, music, literature, painting, etc.). Reasons for these variations. (ii) Meaning in art: words have meanings, so obviously literary works can have meanings, but can musical works or objects in galleries have meanings? (iii) Representation and expression. Representation versus mere reproduction. Is painting the central case? Does anything like the claim for painting make sense in literature and music? (iv) Good versus bad art. Are there degrees of excellence (importance) within art forms? Can a piece of music be compared with a painting or a poem? Specific and general theories of aesthetic value. (v) Critics and critical talk. What do critics do? Are the experts more expert than the laymen? What functions do they serve?
Assessment
Two essays (2500 words each): 40% each * Examinations: 1 hour (20%) * Optional replacement of one essay by a 2-hour examination
Prescribed texts
A collection of readings available from the department