Many great works of art have been inspired by ancient stories of gods and heroes. Ken Bratt, with input from Henry Luttikhuizen, will explore some powerful examples, focusing on stories from Ovid’s Metamorphoses and the works of famous artists from the Renaissance and Baroque periods. We will study the myth of Narcissus (the origin of art?), stories of gods with mortals (Jupiter and his lovers, Venus and hers, Athena and Heracles), and some legends rooted in places like Crete, Troy, and Athens. Renowned artists who explore the myths include Botticelli, Titian, Michelangelo, Bernini, Rubens, and many more. We will assess the enduring power of these stories to inspire great literature, painting, and sculpture in many different times and places, right up to our own.

      Subject: art, history, literature

Ken Bratt is a professor of classics emeritus at Calvin University and former director of the Honors Program. He currently serves as CALL’s Curriculum Director.