ARHI125 CM - Rembrandt’s World: Invention and Exploration in the 17th Century

This course will treat European cultural and intellectual history of the seventeenth century using the career of visual artist Rembrandt van Rijn (1606-69) as the organizing chronological frame. In addition to becoming familiar with the paintings, prints and drawings produced by Rembrandt and his contemporaries, students will consider the political, devotional, and scientific developments characteristic of Europe at this time. Topics will include the emergence of the Dutch Republic; the aftermath of Iconoclasm and the coexistence of different religious communities; the refinement of optical devices, including the microscope; and the increased practice of dissection. The rise of global trade will also be discussed, with specific discussion of the Dutch presence in South America and active trade with Asia, particularly through the VOC (Dutch East India Company).

Offered: Every other year

Credit: 1

Course Number: ARHI125 CM