1. Judith Beheading Holofernes Michelangelo Merisi a. k. a
Judith Beheading Holofernes Michelangelo Merisi a.k.a. Caravaggio Baroque (Italy)
Caravaggio’s life was often complex and tumultuous. His brash personality made him prone to outbursts and even lead to him having conflicts with the authorities. Much of his work in turn deals with violent imagery (including the beheading of John the Baptist and a severed head of Medusa) Do you think the confrontational nature of his life and personality had any effect on his choice of artistic subject matter?

2. The Crucifixion of St. Peter Michelangelo Merisi a. k. a
The Crucifixion of St. Peter Michelangelo Merisi a.k.a. Caravaggio Baroque (Italy)
Baroque art is often characterized by strong diagonal lines within the overall composition. This creates a sense of instability and tension. Where in this composition do you see the artist using diagonals to give a sense of movement or tension to create a sense of drama.

3. The Sacrifice of Isaac Michelangelo Merisi a. k. a
The Sacrifice of Isaac Michelangelo Merisi a.k.a. Caravaggio Baroque (Italy)
As with many artists of the time, Caravaggio’s most significant patron was the church. Many of the images that he created dealt with religious imagery.
What advantages or disadvantages could you see in an artist being reliant on a religious institution for much of his or her financial income? Are their any apparent benefits or limitations that the artist may experience?

4. Thursday 12/20/2012 The Madonna of Loredo Caravaggio Baroque
During the Baroque period the Catholic church was in the middle of a “counter-reformation” that was an attempt to bring worshippers back into the faith. Artists were employed to create inspirational images that would help in this effort.
Do you think that this image works towards that goal? Does it appear that Caravaggio was creating this work for the church or for some personal reason? Explain.
The Madonna of Loredo Caravaggio Baroque

5. Friday 12/21/2012
What common characteristics do you see in Caravaggio’s body of work? What does he do the same in all four examples?