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How to Write Art History (2nd edition)

 

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How to Write Art History (2nd edition)
Anne D'Alleva

Paperback
52 illustrations
184 pages
210 x 138 mm
ISBN 978 1 85669 695 1
$0.00
Published August 2010

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Contents


Introduction: How to use this book
Chapter 1: Introducing art history
Chapter 2: Formal analysis
Chapter 3: Contextual analysis
Chapter 4: Writing art history essays and papers
Chapter 5: Navigating art history examinations
Chapter 6: Art history’s own history
Glossary
Bibliography
Table of parallel illustrations in art history surveys
Index
Picture credits

 

 

An invaluable handbook, How to Write Art History enables students to get the most from their art history course. In a clear and engaging style, Anne D’Alleva empowers readers to approach their coursework with confidence and energy. The book introduces two basic art historical methods – formal analysis and contextual analysis – and this second edition provides even more step-by-step guidance about how these methods can be used in class discussion and in writing essays and papers. The common strengths and weaknesses of an art history essay are highlighted by using real examples of written work, and at each stage of the writing process D’Alleva offers valuable advice on developing an argument convincingly. Providing a fascinating view of the study of art history within its historical context, this book will be particularly helpful for those considering a career in this rewarding discipline.

 

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Anne D'Alleva is Associate Professor of Art History and Women's Studies at the University of Connecticut. She is the author of 'Arts of the Pacific Islands' and 'Methods and Theories of Art History'.

Review

'A lucid account of the importance of art history as an academic discipline, the lessons in looking that it can equip the attentive student with and a practical guide for students wishing to improve their art historical skills in both visual and verbal analysis. Extremely handy for students new to the discipline.'

Dr. Dorothy C. Rowe, University of Bristol

Review

'Anne d’Alleva’s new book offers undergraduates a gentle but sure-footed introduction to How to Write Art History.  Unlike other such guides, she does not throw unfamiliar names into the basic information they need to get started.  I like how she directly lays out the premise that “art” developed as a concept during the Renaissance, and is unknown in many other cultures.  The comparative listing of where her illustrations can be found in the most popular Art History Survey texts will help instructors especially.  I recommend it highly.'

Margaret B. Betz, Ph.D., The Savannah College of Art and Design

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