The art and architecture of seventeenth-century Italy is often described as dynamic, colorful, theatrical and extravagant. The works of Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio, and of Gianlorenzo Bernini certainly fit this description. Although his career spanned less than twenty years, Caravaggio's approach to painting influenced generations of artists both within and outside of Italy. Bernini, on the other hand, enjoyed a long career, and dominated the seventeenth-century as Michelangelo had dominated the 16th. This course will consider Caravaggio, Bernini, and a number of their contemporaries as practitioners of a style that responded to cultural, religious, social and intellectual forces. We will also discuss works by artists such as the Carracci, Pietro da Cortona, Borromini, and Poussin. Format: lecture/discussion. Requirements will consist of four short papers, two exams during the term, plus a final exam (and, of course, participation in class and regular attendance). Students will be evaluated on the basis of papers and exams. No prerequisites. Enrollment limit 30. Preference given to art majors. Satisfies the pre-1800 requirement.

Hour: MCGRATH