Principles of Scientific Knowledge, Semiotics & Language

Understanding Scientific Knowledge

Science is a rational, objective, and critical process that provides descriptions of phenomena, predicts their behavior, and yields proven results.

Characteristics of Science

  • Sound: Bases its claims on arguments and evidence.
  • Objective: Valid for everyone and open to research and verification by others.
  • Critical: Research results are considered provisional, not final.

Functions of Science

  • Describe: Observe phenomena and take note of their behavior.
  • Explain: Identify the
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Modern Art Analysis: Moore, Chillida, Kandinsky & Fauvism

Analyses of Key Modern Artworks

Henry Moore: Reclining Figure (Example Analysis)

Formal Analysis

Composition

A representation of a woman reclined on a horizontal surface, exhibiting a large gap or void beneath the figure. While somewhat figurative, the woman is rendered schematically; for example, the face is disproportionate to the body. The artist emphasizes the upper part of the female anatomy.

Line and Form

A predominance of curved lines transmits calmness and rest, evident in both the solid, rounded

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The Doubt of St. Thomas: Romanesque Relief at Santo Domingo de Silos

The Doubt of St. Thomas: Cloister of Santo Domingo de Silos

The monumental sculpture, now prominently displayed, once adorned the cloisters of the Monastery of Santo Domingo de Silos in Burgos. Santo Domingo de Silos and Moissac, nearly contemporary, were among the first to embellish architectural elements of cloisters with storied iconography.

“The Doubt of St. Thomas” Relief

“The Doubt of St. Thomas” is a celebrated relief found on the inner sides of the pillars within the cloister of Santo Domingo.

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Caravaggio’s Sicilian Period: Burial of St. Lucy and Resurrection of Lazarus

Caravaggio’s Sicilian Period: A Study of Two Masterpieces

In his Sicilian period (1608-1609), Caravaggio’s style evolved, reflecting the unique environment and commissions he received. This analysis focuses on two significant works from this period: The Burial of St. Lucy and The Resurrection of Lazarus.

In these paintings, the soil is well-defined, and figures appear smaller compared to earlier Roman works. The scenes are more intimate, lacking overt symbols of sanctity. The figures are frozen in

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Bernini’s Ecstasy of Saint Teresa: Context, Analysis, and Interpretation

Bernini’s Ecstasy of St. Teresa

1. Context: The Baroque Era

The Baroque era, spanning the seventeenth and early eighteenth centuries, marked a significant shift from the Renaissance. This period witnessed a division of Europe into Catholic and Protestant regions, a crisis of humanism, and a renewed emphasis on traditional and religious values.

The Baroque style is characterized by its propagandistic purposes, rhetorical formal language, and diverse aesthetic trends.

2. Identification: Ecstasy of St.

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Mercantilism and Baroque Art: A Historical Overview

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The new economic system known as mercantilism defended the wealth of a country, which was based on the amount of precious metal (gold and silver) that it possessed. Therefore, it was necessary to promote domestic industry and trade, to sell much, buying abroad and earn some money. To maintain the new system, state aid was necessary, so mercantilism helped the power of European monarchies. Jean-Baptiste Colbert (1619-1683).

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Monarchy Types

In the feudal monarchy, the king

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