Authorised by Academic Registrar, April 1996
Synopsis The subject has as its focus the development of art and architecture in France during the period c.1000-1300. Following a brief introduction on the earlier medieval period, discussion will be centred on major Romanesque monuments such as the Burgundian monasteries at Cluny and Vézelay, and the sculptural decoration of Moissac in the south. The birth and growth of the gothic style in the Paris region will be studied through close attention to St Denis and Chartres. Finally the later evolution of Gothic will be considered, including some reference to the dissemination of the style in other regions such as England and Flanders. Issues to be given special emphasis during the subject will include the relevance of socio-political patterns during the period (eg `feudalism,' the Crusades, the rise of the Capetian monarchy), and critical assessment of arguments concerning connections between art and thought (eg Gothic architecture and scholasticism).
Assessment Seminar paper (1500 words): 25% + Essay (3000 words): 50% + Visual test (1.5 hours): 25%