2020-2021 College Catalog

PHIL 337 Philosophy of Art

Analysis of various points of view on such topics as the definition of art; aesthetic experience; the form, matter and content of art; emotion and expression; the psychological function of art; criticism; and evaluation. We will also ask, and attempt to answer, six fundamental questions: 1. What is art? 2. What is proper “aesthetic encounter” if any? 3. How do we evaluate a work of art? 4. Can we learn from art? 5. Why do we enjoy tragedy/horror? 6. Where is the artist in the work of art? Active class participation and interest in the material is crucial.

Credits

3