PA 200 - Aesthetics in the Performing Arts

This course introduces students to a wide range of aesthetics topics inherent to the performing arts. We analyze and discuss performances of dance, theater and music to better understand issues of aesthetics pertaining to the performing arts. The course explores paradigms of beauty, creativity, and imagination, definitions of art and their sources of origination, taste, subjectivity, and judgment, social mores, nature, mimesis, and form. We read theoretical articles, philosophical excerpts, and case studies involving a range of topics including classicism, authenticity, and censorship. Readings are scrutinized and ideas applied to performances with informed discussion and analysis. Satisfies the Aesthetic Awareness and Creative Expression General Education elective.

(Cr: 3)