Images, Visions and Dreams: Medieval Manuscripts and Visual Culture - adult education class

Course overview

This course explores the rich visual culture of medieval Europe through its extraordinary imagery. Participants will investigate how images functioned in a world that made little distinction between lived experience, fantasy, dreams, and visions. From manuscript illumination to wall painting, stained glass to sculpture, medieval imagery reveals a world of profound devotion, biting humour, awe, fear, and imagination.

Sessions will examine the symbolic, narrative, and emotional power of visual forms and their relationships with contemporary literature, philosophy, and religious belief. Particular attention will be paid to how these images communicated complex ideas to a broad audience—whether through grandeur or grotesquery.

The course will also reflect on how our modern interpretations shape our understanding of the medieval imagination, and how visual traditions of the past continue to resonate in the present.

Who is this course for?

This is an adult education course open to everyone. No previous experience is required.

The course is especially suited to those with an interest in art history, medieval studies, literature, or religious and cultural history.

Reading material or special equipment needed (if any)

None required.

Any questions?

If you have any questions about the content of this course please contact the tutor, Dr Sarah James, at sarah.james1@imperial.ac.uk  

If you have any questions about enrolment please contact the Imperial after:hours Administrator, Christian Jacobi, at c.jacobi@imperial.ac.uk

Class recordings

These classes are not recorded.

Imperial certificates

There are no examinations or assessments for this course. However, attendance can lead to the award of an Imperial attendance certificate (T&Cs apply).