What is Art History?ART HISTORY is the study of visual culture through the history of civilization. Art objects and architecture are seen as historical documents that most often reveal, but sometimes challenge, the ideals and values of an age. The role of art history is to answer complex questions about the ever-changing political, religious, social, and economic context in which artistic production takes place. You will learn to use a variety of theories and approaches to explore not only individual artists and cultural periods, but pervasive themes in art and even the notion of "art" itself. Apart from the depth of understanding you will gain from a discussion of art through the centuries and across the globe, you will develop analytical skills and a visual literacy that will help you understand our own time more fully.