What ideals and vices would be shown by way of allegorical representation and direct visual description?

For your paper assignment, I would like you to think about and respond to Ambrogio Lorenzetti’s Good and Bad Government frescoes (that are featured in this week’s module) in direct relation to the current state of political affairs and public concerns in America on the eve of the national presidential election.  If you were to envision a modern-day version pertaining to America of Lorenzetti’s frescoes on Good and Bad Government what would that work of art look like, where would it be located, and what ideals and vices would be shown by way of allegorical representation and direct visual description?

Your paper should be a well-crafted and very imagination and thoughtful 2-page proposal for such a work of art.  It can take the form of a proposal, or it can take the form of a straight forward description and discussion of the work of art.  You could even write this in the form of a newspaper article or essay.  Above all, think deeply about contemporary America and what would in our world constitute a visualization, in the manner of Ambrogio Lorenzetti, of good and bad government and their effects in the city and country (or whatever would be the modern American equivalent of city and country).  You should definitely reference Ambrogio Lorenzetti’s work in your discussion so that your reader knows that you are inspired in your thoughts by that late medieval Italian work of public political art.

Your paper should have at least 2 internet references (or non internet references are fine too), beyond our readings and videos, to material that help you make your argument.

Related Downloads

• What if I’m tired and don’t have the time or patience for all this?
• You may earn up to 10 points extra credit (one time only) by listening to my podcas
• I provided 2 links with more in depth info on the 2 pieces of art.