Program Overview

Introduction to the History of Art I

Overview

This module offers a survey of art up to the end of the seventeenth century, with a focus primarily, although not exclusively, on the Western world. It provides an introduction to the critical analysis of artworks, including painting, mosaic, fine metalwork, manuscripts, and sculpture.

The module considers such matters as the iconography of major religious and mythological subjects, issues of style, the functions of works of art, as well as the range of technical methods employed by artists. Artworks are considered in the context of influential factors such as historical period, geographic location, inter-cultural influences, and the prevailing social, political, and religious environments.

Time, Date, and Place

This lecture-only module comprises two lectures per week over one term, commencing the week beginning 22 September 2025. Lectures take place on Trinity campus.

Course Fees

• Full rate: €170
• Concession rate: €90 (available to all those retired, over 65s, and those on a government pension/payment plan and the unwaged, including second and third-level students)

Program Structure

• The module is lecture-based, with two lectures per week.
• It runs for one term, starting on 22 September 2025.
• The lectures are held on Trinity campus.

Program Details

• The module provides an introduction to the critical analysis of artworks from various periods and styles.
• It covers the iconography of major religious and mythological subjects, issues of style, and the functions of works of art.
• The module also explores the technical methods employed by artists and considers artworks in their historical, geographic, and cultural contexts.

Eligibility and Application

• The concession rate is available to specific groups, including the retired, over 65s, and those on a government pension/payment plan and the unwaged.
• Second and third-level students are also eligible for the concession rate.

Additional Information

• The module is part of the History of Art program at Trinity College Dublin.
• It is designed to provide a comprehensive introduction to the history of art, with a focus on the Western world up to the end of the seventeenth century.