Middlebury Institute of International Studies at Monterey

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HARC0380A-S25

Masks and the Senses in Africa

Masks and the Senses in Sub-Saharan Africa
Multi-sensorial spectacles involving visual and performing arts, masquerades are among Africa’s oldest and most dynamic expressive forms, long used to negotiate power, heal, and entertain across the continent and Diaspora. In this seminar, we place the sensing body at the heart of our exploration of masquerades, asking how sensory perception informs artistic creation and interpretation. Using case studies, and emphasizing how masquerades adapt to historical change, we consider the history of the senses, their differences across cultures and time, and their hierarchies to understand their role in knowledge production. Through discussions, readings, written reflections, videos, and museum visits, we move beyond the limitations of our sensoria to deepen our understanding and appreciation of African arts.
Course Reference Number (CRN):
22664
Subject Code:
HARC
Course Number:
0380
Section Identifier:
A

Course

HARC 0380

All Sections in Spring 2025

Spring 2025

HARC0380A-S25 Seminar (Lenius)