History of Spanish Art (in English)

Course Description
This course surveys the history of Spanish art. We begin with prehistoric cave paintings and end
with the 21st century, looking at painting, sculpture, and architecture. We will learn about the
influence of different cultures in the Iberian Peninsula, that have shaped Spanish history and art.
These influences are obvious in Andalusia; therefore, special attention will be paid to those sites
of historical and artistic influence in the south of Spain.

Course Goals and Methodology
By the end of the semester, students will understand the evolution of art in Spain. Students will
become familiar with the vocabulary relevant to architectural and artistic styles. Some of the key
topics that will be covered in this course are the following: art during the Stone Age and the Metal
Ages, Roman, Gothic, Mudéjar, Renaissance, Baroque, Neoclassical, etc., up to the Modern
period. Sevilla, with its monuments and museums, offers a wonderful setting to learn about these
artistic styles firsthand.

Each unit begins with a presentation of the period’s historical outline and the general artistic
context of Spain, followed by contact with the different works divided into architecture, sculpture,
and painting. Although each class period relies heavily on projection of artistic works in class, field
trips will be an opportunity to see some of the works of art and topics discussed in class.

Learning Objectives
Through this course, students will:
• Identify, analyze and critically evaluate the most important artistic manifestations in Spain,
focusing on Andalusia and Sevilla.
• Interpret and compare the function of basic components in art and architecture.
• Develop the basic vocabulary of architectural and artistic terminology and typology.
• Comprehend the evolution of artistic periods.
• Understand iconography.
• Place the works of art studied in the course and assess their time and place in history, taking
into account the influence of different peoples and civilizations.
• Summarize artistic periods (or authors), providing the general background for the analysis
of the most representative works of art.

Units
1. Introduction. Prehistory and Metal Ages.
2. Roman art in Hispania.
3. Visigothic and Pre-Romanesque Art.
4. Islamic Art in al-Andalus.
5. From Romanesque to the Gothic.
6. Renaissance.
7. The Golden Age. Mannerism and Baroque art,
8. The nineteenth century
9. The twentieth century
10. Art after the Civil War
11. Art in Spain today. Student Presentations.

Visits (optional & free):
- Itálica:
- Museum of Fine Arts of Seville