Chateaux of the Loire Valley

The extraordinary castles of the Loire Valley in the French countryside provide a rich historical backdrop to court life in medieval France that culminated in a flowering of creative endeavors in the French Renaissance. The beauty and refinement of this period set the stage for the legendary elegance and style that has made French design famous. This course explores the lavish art, opulent architecture, and renowned gardens that graced the chateaux. The lives of the kings and queens and members of their court will also be discussed within the social and political surroundings of court life. This course will be recorded. Students will have access to the video for 30 days.