The Artist in Medieval England

Module code: HA2020

Module Overview

This optional module investigates the identity, status and working methods of the artist in medieval England. The period covered will extend from the early Anglo-Saxon period right up to the arrival of artists such as Van Dyck at the Stuart court. Fundamental questions such as whether early medieval craftsmen can actually be considered as ‘artists’ at all, and the effects of Conquest, Plague and Reformation on art production, will be posed. Individual works of art will be carefully analysed within a general chronological and thematic framework. Mistakes and deception, artistic identity and reception, relationships with the continent, the place of the patron, tradition and innovation will all be considered.