The magnificent temple complex of Angkor Wat in Cambodia marks the rise of the Khmer Empire in Southeast Asia and its incorporation of Indic cultural influences into the architecture of one of the largest religious monuments in the world. Historian Justin M. Jacobs also explores how it became a center of Buddhist worship, a symbol of French imperial pretensions, and finally an icon of the modern Cambodian nation and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The year 1492 is a defining moment in history, marked by groundbreaking discoveries and artistic innovation that reshaped the world. From Christopher Columbus’ voyage to the achievements of Leonardo da Vinci and Albrecht Dürer, discovery and innovation sparked a period of unprecedented creativity. Renaissance art historian Elaine Ruffolo examines how the convergence of exploration, scientific progress, and artistic mastery shaped a transformative age of cultural and intellectual growth. (World Art History Certificate elective, 1/2 credit)
Constructed in 1299, Palazzo Vecchio was built to be the town hall of Florence. Although it remains a symbol and center for local government, Palazzo Vecchio is now a museum that is home to frescoes by Giorgio Vasari and Domenico Ghirlandaio as well as statues by Michelangelo, Donatello, and Giambologna. Italian Renaissance art expert Rocky Ruggiero highlights this lesser-known museum that has become a symbol of Florence. (World Art History Certificate elective, 1/2 credit)
From its start in the early 1950s, the talk show has been one of television’s most durable formats. Pioneering programs like “Today,” “Person-to-Person,” and “Tonight” established the basic features that have guided the format, later embraced by Oprah Winfrey, David Letterman, and Jon Stewart, among others. Media historian Brian Rose looks at the history of the television talk show and examines its changing appeal.
From Fyodor Dostoyevsky’s Notes from a Dead House to Octavia Butler’s Parable of the Sower, literature offers a powerful medium for delving into profound questions about existence, free will, and the essence of reality. Philosophical counselor Samir Chopra examines philosophical themes found in literary genres such as the legal novel, post-apocalyptic fiction, and religious literature as he explores how literature can serve as a tool for moral education and instruction.
The stone statues in Bamiyan, Afghanistan, were the largest representations of standing Buddhas in the world until their destruction by the Taliban in 2001. Historian Justin M. Jacobs delves into the history of the Bamiyan Buddhas, their construction and original purpose and function, and how they exemplified Buddhist civilization in Central Asia. He also examines their complex and surprising relationship with successive Muslim rulers of Afghanistan.
The Church of Santa Maria Glorioso dei Frari, commonly known as Frari’s Church or the Church of the Frari, is a minor basilica in Venice, Italy. It has an unassuming façade, but don’t let that fool you: The church contains splendors from over 500 years of Venetian history, including works by Titian, Donatello, and Bellini. Italian Renaissance art expert Rocky Ruggiero delves into the church and the treasures inside. (World Art History Certificate elective, 1/2 credit)
The island of Murano has remained the heart of Venetian glassmaking since the late medieval period. Today, a blend of centuries-old traditions and contemporary experimentation keeps this extraordinary art form alive. Art historian Jennie Hirsh traces the rich history of Murano glassmaking, examines influential modern artisans and workshops, and offers insights into the best places in Venice to experience glass artistry today. (World Art History Certificate elective, 1/2 credit)
