Belgium and Vienna: Art, Empire, and After
(ARH 401) The Habsburg Empire dominated European politics and culture for nearly half a millennium, and its influence can be seen in contemporary cultural production to this day. Taking place in Bruges, Antwerp, Brussels, Ghent, and Vienna, the course will trace the history of the visual arts produced under the dynastic rule of the Habsburgs from the late 14th century to the early 20th century and will also examine its legacy in the present. Students will not only engage art first-hand in major museums but will also be able to walk along the cobbled streets and canals that define some of the best-preserved medieval and Renaissance cities in Europe. Contact Prof. Jay Bloom.