Print this page The Spell of the Gothic: Art, Ballet and Books

Why are we so enchanted by the Gothic? Soaring cathedrals, haunted castles, mysterious counts and moonlit graveyards have captured imaginations for centuries, and they still do today. In this light-hearted and informative course, we'll explore both the history and the legends of the Gothic. We'll begin with the medieval period we call Gothic, from the art that came just before it to the great Basilica of Saint-Denis near Paris, where Gothic architecture was born. We'll look at Gothic themes in art and garden design, and how the Gothic imagination grew into a world of books, stories and legends. Of course, we'll also meet Bram Stoker's Dracula, separating myth from reality (without spoiling a good story!), and discuss a ballet version of the tale performed in Australia. Along the way, we'll ask why the Gothic still has such a hold on us, in film, fashion, literature and popular culture.

Join fellow lovers of art, history and a good spooky tale for an entertaining and friendly journey. Every question is welcome, and there'll be plenty of time to share your own favourite Gothic stories.

DELIVERY MODE

• Face to face

COURSE RESOURCES

• Bram Stocker's "Dracula"

COURSE OUTLINE

• A humourous and informative look at the myths and histories of The Gothic. We will tease apart myth and reality (but not ruin a good story in the process!). We will look at Abraham Stocker's 'Dracula', discuss themes and imagery in Gothic art and garden design - and discuss the late Romanesque, as well as the authors and legends who live on through their work

LEARNING OUTCOMES

By the end of this course, students should be able to:

• Be entertained by a light-hearted look at hte period in history called Gothic. Particpants will understand how and w3hy the Gothic style and imagination was born, and why it is so influential today, in drama, art and in our culture.