Leon Batista Alberti: 1404-1472

This course explores selected aspects of the writings and works of Leon Battista Alberti (1404-1472), seeking to place these in their historical and cultural contexts.During the first half of the semester, weekly lectures will treat selected themes or topics in depth. At the same time, students will pursue independent study in order to familiarize themselves with all of Alberti\’s works, both built and written. This survey knowledge will be tested in a mid-term examination. During the second half of the semester participants will present seminar reports. These will be formal presentations with slides of 45 minutes duration, leaving time for discussion after each. The seminar report will then be developed into a term paper of 20 pages, with endnotes, bibliography, and illustrations, due in the final exam period.