THEA 2401

An introduction to the study of human social behaviour and its relationship to the development of body coverings, this lecture-based survey class begins with the earliest Mediterranean cultures, Ancient Egypt, Greece and Rome, and continues through to the late middle ages in Western Europe. We will look at the evolution of clothing and the intersections of environment, culture and politics that shaped human body adornment and dress practices from the beginning of recorded history through the Crusades and beyond. Our emphasis will be on using primary sources to gain a solid understanding of the social and cultural importance of forms of historical dress alongside the visual and practical components. This course is open to students in any undergraduate program, and it is also part of the Costume Studies Program.