Start Date
Wednesday 16 July 2025, 11am - 4pm
Overview
A century before the acknowledged start of the Italian Renaissance the Florentine poet, Dante Alighieri, penned one of the greatest works of medieval literature, his Divine Comedy. His work influenced generations of subsequent artists who sought to depict the fantastical, disturbing, ghoulish and macabre visions of the afterlife that Dante described in his epic poem. These images from across the centuries have influenced popular imaginations across cultures and times and given us enduring visions of Hell, often utilised as warnings of the fate that awaits us if we fail to repent and cease our transgressive behaviour. Sometimes shockingly ghoulish, sometimes comic and knowing, other times surreal and unnerving, these visions evidence how artists continue to be inspired by Dante. From late medieval wall art to more recent contemporary work Dante’s nine circles of the Inferno offer us a journey to Hell, and back.
This study day introduces participants to a wide range of artworks and visual depictions based on Dante’s Inferno, they will be encouraged to consider the method of fabrication and what, if any, meaning lies behind the work.
This course is created for anyone with an interest in the History of Art, though no prior knowledge is required. Those with interests in literature, philosophy, theology or religious studies are especially welcome as the intent is to create a truly inter-disciplinary approach.
Syllabus
- 11am–12pm – Session 1, Hell before Dante, early Medieval Art
12pm–1pm – Session 2, Hell after Dante, late Medieval & Early Renaissance Art
1pm–2pm – Lunch Break
2pm–3pm – Session 3, The warped wonders of Northern Surrealism
3pm–4pm – Session 4, Dante’s continued influence, Modern & Contemporary Hell.
Please note that the ‘last date available to book’ date is only a guide. We reserve the right to close bookings earlier if courses are over- or under-subscribed. In order to avoid disappointment, please be sure enrol as soon as possible. Registrations will not be processed until the following day if received after 3pm.
Course Lecturer: Ed Williams
Ed Williams is an Art Historian who studied under Prof. Janina Ramirez at Oxford. He works at TATE Liverpool, he is a regular contributor to on-line publications, writing in the field of art history and art critique. His work involves regularly leading groups through exhibitions and giving public lectures, he previously taught undergraduate and postgraduate students at a number of Universities including the Department of Continuing Education at the University of Liverpool..
Courses fees: Full fee £70
Back to: Continuing Education