Art History: Discovering the Unknown: The Arts in Byzantium by George Makris, The University of Birmingham

Pupils shall learn about an unfamiliar period of history and culture: Byzantium. They will have the opportunity to think critically on topics that are studied at university. They will understand why art was important for medieval societies. Questions to be answered: Byzantium: what is that? What follows after the fall of the Roman Empire? What did medieval people consider as art? Where do we find art and its products? What was happening in Europe during the time of the Anglo-Saxons? Students shall answer such questions through an interactive session where they shall express their views on a display of images of Byzantine artefacts.

Suitable for: Key Stage 4 students with potential or developing interests in European History, Art History, Archaeology, Cultural Studies, for example.

Preparation/Pre-reading: There is no pre-reading or preparation required for this session. Students may like to think of questions relevant to studying Art History or related subjects (see above) at university or about university life which they will have the opportunity to ask during the session.