Analyzing Art and Literature in the Northern Renaissance

"Analyzing Art and Literature in the Northern Renaissance" Please respond to the following:

• Chapter 16 takes us into central and northern Europe as the cultural changes of the Renaissance begins to have an impact on art and scholarship in that region. Van Eyck's famous Arnolfini double portrait (pp. 542-3, fig. 16.7) is an extraordinary example of detail, symbolism, realism, and color. Our text reviews many of the symbols. Students love to consider whether she is with child or just hitching up an odd garment of the day. Fig. 16.8 (p. 543) shows a close-up of the mirror in the painting. Go to http://www.thefreelibrary.com/The+Arnolfini+double+portrait%3A+a+simple+solution.-a0109131988 and read this article on van Eyck's work. Discuss Koster's view on Van Eyck's work. Debates about Jan Van Eyck’s portrait of the Arnolfini couple reside in the complex meanings of symbols that likely would have been understood by most 15th century viewers in the Netherlands.
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• Question 1
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• As a 21st century viewer, describe and explain your interpretation of the painting and its elements.

• Chapter 19 brings us to the Northern Renaissance in England in the age of famous folks like Henry VIII and Queen Elizabeth I. It introduces us also to Shakespeare. On pp. 642-3, our text provides us parts of two (2) soliloquies from Hamlet, perhaps his best known play. First, be clear on the meaning of the word "soliloquy" (see p. 648); those of us who talk to ourselves can now feel validated by Shakespeare. Now, consider the two (2) soliloquies. Obviously, you must read pp. 641-4 for context and background, and read both soliloquies more than once. Reading Shakespeare is a challenge; do not opt out and don’t just find something on the Internet and rehash it here. This is a short reading but one to read more than once. Discuss your reaction to the character of Hamlet as you read his thoughts.

Question 2

• Give your opinion about the character Hamlet, considering whether you sympathize with him or think him self-absorbed. Explain how the literary form – a soliloquy – shapes your view of Hamlet. Now, choose a line or two (except "To be, or not to be") that you find is your favorite or you find interesting, and explain your choice. Finally, give your opinion as to why plays like this still connect with modern audiences.

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