Keys to Reading Images
This course is part of Lectura de imágenes históricas.
This comprehensive course addresses our increasingly visual world by providing key methods for understanding and analyzing images across history. Living in an era of iconic revolution, we need tools to decode the visual language that surrounds us. The course begins with image theory and analytical methodologies before exploring how images have been used to represent power throughout history. Students will examine the evolution of visual representations through specific case studies, including the Crusades and Don Quixote, tracing how these depictions have transformed from medieval archetypes to contemporary interpretations. The curriculum covers diverse visual media: from cave paintings to digital imagery, from religious iconography to mass media communications. Participants will learn to interpret paintings, sculptures, and architecture as historical documents, while also analyzing how mass communication technologies—from the printing press to photography, from caricatures to cinema—have democratized and transformed our relationship with images. By understanding why images retain their magical aura in contemporary society (explaining why we destroy statues of tyrants, carry photos of loved ones, or kiss religious icons), students will develop critical thinking skills essential for navigating today's visually saturated environment. The course combines historical understanding with practical analytical skills, enabling participants to use images both as historical evidence and as educational resources.
4.7
(6 ratings)
Instructors:
Pedro García Martín
Spanish
Spanish
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What you'll learn
Learn theories and methods for analyzing and interpreting different types of images
Trace the evolution of visual representation from prehistoric paintings to internet imagery
Examine how images have been used to depict power throughout history
Understand propaganda techniques and the phenomenon of iconoclasm
Follow the iconographic development of specific themes like the Crusades and Don Quixote
Analyze how mass media has transformed visual communication through various technologies
Skills you'll gain
This course includes:
PreRecorded video
Graded assessments
Access on Mobile, Tablet, Desktop
Limited Access access
Shareable certificate
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There are 5 modules in this course
This course provides a comprehensive framework for understanding and analyzing images throughout human history. Beginning with image theory and analytical methodologies, it equips participants with the tools to decode visual language across different contexts and time periods. The curriculum examines how humans have created images for religious, informative, and entertainment purposes since prehistoric times, and how society has experienced an accelerating proliferation of visual content. Students explore the transformation from "homo sapiens" to "homo videns" (viewing human) through the historical journey from sacred cave paintings to today's era of image saturation. The course investigates images of power throughout history, from ancient kings to democratic presidents, analyzing propaganda and iconoclasm. It traces the iconographic evolution of specific themes like the Crusades and Don Quixote across historical periods. Additionally, participants learn how mass media has transformed visual communication, from printmaking to cinema, examining engravings, photography, posters, advertising, comics, film, television, and digital screens. Throughout, the course emphasizes the enduring magical quality of images that explains why they continue to influence our lives so profoundly.
Reading images: theories and methods
Module 1
History of images: from prehistoric paintings to internet
Module 2
Images of power: from ancient kings to democratic presidents
Module 3
Iconographic study of historical themes: the Crusades and Don Quixote
Module 4
Images in mass media: from printing press to cinema
Module 5
Fee Structure
Individual course purchase is not available - to enroll in this course with a certificate, you need to purchase the complete Professional Certificate Course. For enrollment and detailed fee structure, visit the following: Lectura de imágenes históricas
Payment options
Financial Aid
Instructor
Pedro García Martín
6 Courses
Catedrático de Historia Moderna, Escritor y Divulgador en la Universidad Autónoma de Madrid
Pedro García Martín es catedrático de Historia Moderna en la Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (UAM) y escritor, con una extensa trayectoria docente desde 1984 tanto en la UAM como en instituciones de Italia, Finlandia, Portugal, Francia y Estados Unidos. Es miembro fundador del grupo ROGLE y ha impartido clases sobre historia rural, historia cultural, paisaje, la Orden de Malta y las cruzadas, además de participar en proyectos de investigación y gestión universitaria
Testimonials
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4.7 course rating
6 ratings
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