Marian Art

Catalog description

Taught by GTU/JST. QUEEN OF HEAVEN, MOTHER, ADVOCATE, OUR LADY OF VICTORY, STAR OF THE SEA From the early Christian centuries to today, representations of the Virgin Mary have evolved and changed, and are as diverse as her many titles. Using a cross-disciplinary approach, this course will closely examine the making, meaning, and reception of Marian images within the various social, religious, and cultural milieus from which they emerged. For example, we will consider Greek icons depicting Mary as Theotokos, or God-bearer, Italian Renaissance imagery of the Virgin and Child, nineteenth-century portrayals of Mary as the Immaculate Conception, the miraculous Madonnas at Guadalupe and Czestochowa, and vernacular Marian shrines. The course will include a pilgrimage to a local Marian site and museum/church visits. Students will be evaluated through final research papers on an original topic of their choice, class participation, and an oral presentation. Intended audience: any advanced graduate student interested in the art and material culture of religion.