The period from the collapse of the Roman Empire to the beginning of the Renaissance in Italy, called the Middle Ages, is treated in two separate courses, each a semester in length. Art 117, the first half, is generally taught each fall. It is a lecture course with mid-term and final exams and a research paper. Medieval survey begins with the fourth century and ends with the fall of Constantinople, in 1453.
Lectures start with early sarcophagi, the catacombs and objects of everyday use.
The origin of the basilican church and its first decoration are explored. Other topics include the Age of Justinian, Iconoclasm and its causes, painting and sculpture of the Byzantine Empire.