CLEP Humanities : Analyzing the Content of Renaissance 2D Visual Art

Study concepts, example questions & explanations for CLEP Humanities

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Example Questions

Example Question #92 : Visual Arts

What figure from Greek mythology is prominently featured in Sandro Botticelli's most famous work?

Possible Answers:

Hera

Mars

Venus

Zeus

Hercules

Correct answer:

Venus

Explanation:

Sandro Botticelli's The Birth of Venus is one of the signature paintings of Early Renaissance art from Italy, and as such deals with many themes prominent in the era. Botticelli chose the ancient goddess of love, appearing nude and fully formed from the ocean on a clam shell, instead of a Christian theme. Additionally, the picture's symbolism and color focus more on Platonic ideals than the Christian symbolism that was so prevalent in late Medieval art.

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