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This course examines some of the principal problems in the study of aesthetics, and their relevance to contemporary art and theory.
This is an issues-based course made up of ten topics. Each topic examines a principal problem in the study of aesthetics and is given a historical and theoretical grounding through leading texts. The ways in which the issues have been formulated and discussed in more recent scholarship will be studied. Topics include: why fine art is dominated by the ‘aesthetic senses’ of the eye and the ear; differences between the way we experience beauty in nature and beauty in art; whether we can judge a morally repugnant work of art beautiful. Discussing these issues and others encourages students to question basic assumptions about art and aesthetic experience, and to develop a critical attitude towards theories of art and beauty.
By the end of this course, students will have developed: Knowledge of key problems in the history of aesthetics and philosophy relating to the understanding of art and material culture Developing skills presenting research outcomes in a range of formats including essays and an oral presentation Acquisition of skills in advanced critical reading of art philosophical and aesthetic texts
15 points at 200-level Art History and Theory and any 15 points at 200-level from the BA Schedule.
Richard Bullen
There is no set text for this course. Readings will be made available through the course’s Learn site.(Image: Raymond McIntyre, "Portrait of a Young Girl", 1913. University of Canterbury Art Collection.)
Domestic fee $1,464.00
International fee $5,950.00
* All fees are inclusive of NZ GST or any equivalent overseas tax, and do not include any programme level discount or additional course-related expenses.
For further information see Humanities .