In the first of four required courses in the history of art and design, students explore the major artists, movements and artistic themes of the Western tradition, beginning with Prehistoric art and concluding with the Gothic in the late thirteenth century. Lectures and readings examine ways in which artists conceive of religion, society, politics and the role of men and women within their historical and stylistic context. In addition, the course considers various media and materials, such as painting, sculpture, and architecture, and the fundamentals of design and composition. At the conclusion of this course, students will recognize a broad range of artists, works, and styles from ancient to medieval art. Further, students will learn to conduct research within the discipline of art history, and write knowledgeably on topics from ancient to medieval art. Prerequisite: none