22-2141 Art and Ritual

Course examines the relationship between art and ritual through diverse examples from many parts of the world and many time periods, including contemporary art. Art and ritual have been closely connected ever since the earliest works of art were created in the Old Stone Age. How has art been used in rituals related to spiritual beliefs, healing, the life cycle, political power, social cohesion, and personal identity? What is the process by which art embodies, represents, or transforms spiritual and other beliefs in rituals? These and other questions will be addressed through lectures, class discussions, films, and field trips.
3 Credits