This course will survey global art and architecture from the beginnings of image production, during the prehistoric period, through to the end of the Middle Ages. Week to week, the material will be focused thematically, organized in rough chronology, and located within specific geographic regions and cultural formations. Major topics will include the multiple and foundational definitions of ‘art’ found in various cultural contexts; the origins and development of systems of writing in relation to the visual arts; art’s relation to power and propaganda in the defining of empire; the role of art in relation to myth, religion, and ritual. The course will also focus on developing a set of critical concepts and vocabularies, which are key to understanding global arts practices in their historic and their contemporary contexts. Meets the Graduation Writing Requirement for majors in Animation and Illustration, Fashion Studies, Product Design, Visual Arts, and Visual Communication Design. Equivalent course ARHT 105 effective through Summer 2021. Satisfies Great Works/Influences GenEd requirement; satisfies SEEDS Literary and Artistic Analysis student learning outcome in alignment with Educated Citizenry and Diversity and Intercultural Competency values.