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How to use this content:
As listed on the “Start Here” page for this unit, one of the unit objectives is “Identify Key Historical Facts” This objective will be assessed by the unit quiz. While reading and watching the content in the following links and videos, make note of historical facts and information so you can return to them as needed when working on the unit quiz. Be on the lookout for names of artists, influential people, artworks, important events, trends and values in the culture.
Getting Started
To get started looking at the History of Western Art, let’s make sure we are all on the same page, starting with the same knowledge base. In this course we will be looking at Western Art chronologically, and at the same time exploring some ideas and themes that will help you make sense of it and feel connected to it. Here are a few links to introduce you to / refresh your understanding of the basics of Western culture, and understanding our system of dates and dating conventions.
Link #1: What is Art History and Where Is It Going?
Link #2: A Brief History of Western Culture
Link #3: Questions about Dates
Prehistoric Cultures
Paleolithic Art
The Paleolithic period is the first time that humans spontaneously start making art. Although it seems so long ago, so detached from our contemporary world, there is really a lot that is common between us. The following articles and videos are just a start to understanding this era.
Link #4: Paleolithic Art: An Introduction
Link #5: Video: Lascaux Cave Paintings
Link #6: “Venus” of Willendorf
Neolithic
As nomadic groups settled into permanent areas and began farming and establishing communities, these huge life changes brought new kinds of art. Some of those communities grew to become major civilizations, each making art that tells their story and represent their values. Read/watch about their art in the attached links.
Link #7: The Neolithic Revolution
Link #8: Stonehenge
Ancient Near East
Link #9: Ancient Near East overview
Akkad
Link #10: Akkad
Link #11: Video: Victory Stele of Naram-Sin
Link #12: Stele of Naram-Sin (be sure to scroll down to see more views of the stele)
Persian Empire
Link #13: Ancient Persian Empire Overview
Link #14: Audience Hall of Darius and Xerxes
More Learning Resources
Remember, since we can’t cover everything about art in this class, these reading assignments are based on the choices I have made for what to include, but there is much more that has not been included. If you are interested in learning more, please remember that our primary source, the Khan Academy, has lots of other videos and articles that explore this time and culture even further. You can explore them at Khan Academy (prehistoric) or SmartHistory (prehistoric).
Additionally, these links below are not required reading for this unit, but if you are interested in learning more, you might enjoy exploring these resources:
All Images form the Persian Apadana from the University of Chicago: