William Blake: Poet and Painter

William Blake, a leading Romantic artist and poet, fused image and text in his “illuminated books,” inspired by medieval manuscripts. These illustrated volumes let him confront themes of religion, poverty, inequality, and human existence. His etched poems and images created a true union of painting and poetry, most famously in Songs of Innocence and Songs of Experience. Art historian David Gariff offers insights into Blake’s achievements as both poet and artist. (World Art History Certificate elective, 1/2 credit)