Accessibility statement

Aesthetics: An Introduction to the Philosophy of Art - CED00088C

« Back to module search

  • Department: Centre for Lifelong Learning
  • Module co-ordinator: Mr. Rafe McGregor
  • Credit value: 10 credits
  • Credit level: C
  • Academic year of delivery: 2023-24

Module will run

Occurrence Teaching period
A Spring Term 2023-24

Module aims

This module will examine recent developments in philosophical aesthetics from the perspective of the analytic tradition in philosophy, focusing on key texts from the latter half of the twentieth century.  The discipline is primarily concerned with establishing the foundations upon which the criticism and appreciation of the various art forms is based and consists of five main issues which concern all art forms: definition, ontology, properties, interpretation, and value.  The question of fictionality and its relation to human emotions will also be addressed.  The module provides a basic introduction to the application of philosophical analysis to the theory and practice of art.

Module learning outcomes

Upon successful completion of the module, students will be able to:

  • Demonstrate an understanding of a selection of key texts in philosophical aesthetics. 
  • Compare and contrast different approaches to one of the issues in philosophical aesthetics.
  • Analyse and evaluate a selection of key texts in philosophical aesthetics.

Assessment

Task Length % of module mark
Essay/coursework
Analytical essay		 N/A 100

Special assessment rules

None

Reassessment

None

Module feedback

The tutor will give regular individual verbal and written feedback throughout the module on work submitted.

The assessment feedback is as per the university’s guidelines with regard to timings

Indicative reading

  • Aesthetics and the Philosophy of Art: The Analytic Tradition: An Anthology, edited by P. Lamarque & S.H. Olsen, Blackwell, 2003
  • Art and Imagination, Roger Scruton, Methuen, 1974
  • Mimesis as Make-Believe: On The Foundations of the Representational Arts, Kendall L. Walton, Harvard University Press, 1990.

 


The information on this page is indicative of the module that is currently on offer. The University is constantly exploring ways to enhance and improve its degree programmes and therefore reserves the right to make variations to the content and method of delivery of modules, and to discontinue modules, if such action is reasonably considered to be necessary by the University. Where appropriate, the University will notify and consult with affected students in advance about any changes that are required in line with the University's policy on the Approval of Modifications to Existing Taught Programmes of Study.