The Flemish painter Peter Paul Rubens (1577-1640) was an exceptionally learned and thoughtful artist whose works reward intensive study. This seminar will discuss them in terms of the functions they served, taking into account his choice and interpretation of subjects as well as issues of style, working method (including collaboration), size, and format. Attention will also be given to his designs for the title pages of books, examples of which exist in local collections (Chapin Rare Books Library and the Clark Art Institute). Short and long oral report. 25-page research paper, with the first part submitted half-way through the semester and the full version at the end.