A380 Photography

Marian, Spring 2002

 

Paper #2:  100 points possible.  Due in class on Wednesday, March 6 (one class period later than original schedule).   

 

Mechanical Requirements

For all written assignments for this class, the following mechanical requirements apply:

1. Type or word-process your answer. 
2. Use standard one-inch margins.
3. Font size NO LARGER than 12 points. 
4. Double-space. 
5. Staple multiple pages together. 

Failure to adhere to these guidelines will reduce your grade by one full letter.  Late papers will be reduced according to the schedule published in the syllabus.

 

Subject: Interpretation of photographs

 

Choose one of the following sets of images from the Rosenblum text:

 

1. Alexander Hesler, Three Pets, c. 1851 (p. 232, fig. 275) vs. Lewis Carroll, Edith, Lorina, and Alice Liddell, c. 1859 (p. 74, fig. 73)
2. Baron Reteniz von Stillfried, Rain Shower in the Studio, c. 1875 (p. 174, fig. 193) vs. Julia Margaret Cameron, My Niece Julia Jackson, c. 1867 (p. 76, fig. 75)
3. Julia Margaret Cameron, Sir John Herschel, April 1867 (p. 75, fig. 74) vs.  Dr. Hugh Welch Diamond, Inmates of Surrey County Asylum, 1852 (p. 77, figs. 76-77)

 

Use the comparison you chose as a “springboard” to perform an analysis of the images.  What can we learn from considering the technologies used, the original uses and contexts of each image, the intentions of the photographer, etc.  What can we deduce about the culture and society of the mid 19^th century from considering the gender, social class, ethnicity, etc. of the persons in the images?

 

Length:  This paper should be about 3 pages in length, give or take a paragraph or so.  A paper will not be docked simply on length or lack thereof; however, in grading your essay I will be considering the thoroughness and thoughtfulness of your answer.  I will also look for the use (and demonstrated understanding) of terms and concepts introduced in class and readings.