Art history

Doing Art History

Module code: V4000
Level 4
15 credits in autumn semester
Teaching method: Seminar
Assessment modes: Portfolio

On this module, you’ll explore the diverse range of primary sources central to the study of Art History. You’ll engage with primary sources, such as:

  • artworks
  • fashion
  • manuscripts
  • letters
  • photography
  • material culture
  • design.

You’ll develop confidence in navigating different contexts and locations relevant to the discipline, including:

  • archives
  • libraries
  • institutional collections
  • digital repositories.

By the end of the module, you’ll understand how art historians work with a wide range of primary evidence.

Taught through seminars, including sessions held at locations such as The Keep, you’ll gain hands-on experience in working with objects and images. You’ll build key academic and study skills required at undergraduate level, with a focus on:

  • visual analysis
  • effective primary and secondary research
  • sourcing academically appropriate materials.

Module learning outcomes

  • Analyse a range of primary sources
  • Express ideas in writing and orally
  • Use online finding aids and catalogues
  • Locate and critically evaluate secondary sources
  • Develop an academic argument