Along with Jerusalem and Rome, Spain’s Camino de Santiago was one of the three great destinations of medieval Christendom. After centuries of decline and neglect, this ancient pilgrimage sprang to life again in the last quarter of the 20th century, drawing millions of visitors every year. George Greenia, professor emeritus of medieval studies at William & Mary, highlights the history of this road of faith and its continued popularity as a religious and secular quest for those seeking spiritual clarity.
Work with unglazed porcelain to create a modern interpretation of a classical mosaic inspired by motifs and subjects from the Roman and Byzantine periods.
The Massachusetts 54th Regiment, one of the first African American units in the Civil War, fought under Col. Robert Gould Shaw, a white officer who shared their commitment to freedom. They famously led the July 1863 assault on Fort Wagner, where nearly half, including Shaw, were killed. Paul Glenshaw examines how Augustus Saint-Gaudens’ Shaw Memorial, unveiled in 1897 on Boston Common, honored their sacrifice with individualized portraits of the soldiers. At its dedication, the memorial reflected a growing recognition of Black soldiers’ valor and the war’s legacy of emancipation. (World Art History Certificate elective: Earn 1/2 credit)
For centuries, the central Italian region of Abruzzo has preserved some of Italy’s most exquisite and symbolic goldsmithing traditions. From the presentosa, a star-shaped pendant given as a love token, to the intricate filigree work worn by women as markers of social status and regional identity, Abruzzese jewelry is a living chronicle of history, devotion, and craftsmanship. In a presentation illustrated by images of heirloom pieces, cultural historian Viviana Altieri explores the origins, meanings, and social significance of traditional gold jewelry from Abruzzo. (World Art History Certificate elective, 1/2 credit)
The three voyages of Captain James Cook from 1768 to 1779 were filled with high drama, tragedy, intrigue, and humor. Historian Justin M. Jacobs places Cook and his world in historical context, highlights his substantive connections with the Polynesian world, and examines his search for the “Great Southern Continent” and Northwest Passage.
Magna Carta began as a failed 1215 peace treaty between King John and his barons. Over time, it became a symbol of citizens’ rights for America’s Founding Fathers. Thomas J. McSweeney, law professor at William & Mary, traces its evolution and debates: principle vs. self-interest, its rise as fundamental law, and its stance on property versus common rights. He concludes by questioning its effectiveness as a model for guaranteeing rights in a republic.
Many of the most beautiful buildings of the last 600 years have been erected in Asia, which is also known for its boldly modern cities. Kathleen James-Chakraborty, a professor of art history and architectural historian at University College Dublin, looks across the continent from Iran to Japan at both historic and contemporary buildings. She also highlights the important contributions that women have made as patrons and designers of innovative architecture. (World Art History Certificate core course, 1 credit)
Insects surged to ecological dominance by evolving larvae—grubs, maggots, and caterpillars—with extraordinary survival strategies and life cycle advantages. Wildlife documentary filmmaker Steve Nicholls explores their remarkable origins and the ingenious ways these vulnerable young thrive, from impersonating predators to forming intricate social networks.
