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Department of History of Art and Architecture

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HAxxxx Interrogating Insular Art

This module explores the rich artistic output in Ireland and associated territories during the early medieval period (c. 600–1000).
  • Module Organiser:
    • Dr Rachel Moss
  • Contact Hours:
    • 2 hours per week
  • Weighting:
    • 10 ECTS
  • Assessment:
    • This course is assessed by a group project and an extended essay. Students are also required to actively participate in seminar discussions and to complete reading in preparation for the seminars.

This module looks at how patronage, liturgy and the development of extraordinary technical skills shaped the production of manuscripts, fine metalwork and carved stone in Ireland, western Scotland and other areas that lay under Irish influence. Through seminars, field trips and personal study, students will become familiar with the key works of the period and the ways in which they reflect the societies by whom they were produced. The module also moves beyond the Middle Ages to explore issues of survival and revival and the debates surrounding historiography, popular reception and display.

 

Learning Outcomes:

On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:

  • Describe the principal art works and developments in Insular art and architecture c. 600-1000.
  • Formally analyse the historical and geographical background of Insular art and architecture.
  • Critically assess Insular art and architecture in the broader contemporary European and near Eastern context.
  • Apply the interdisciplinary methodologies used in the study of historic landscapes and artefacts as relevant to Insular art and architecture.
  • Explore the ’longer life’ of Insular art, through the factors that led to survival and revivals.
  • Complete an intensive, self-motivated study of a historical problem relating to Insular art with high quality research organization and presentation.