This is a great course to learn about Roman art! Beckmann is knowledgeable and an engaging lecturer. We covered art and architecture starting from the founding of Rome until the last strands of the Empire in the AD. Lots of interesting information! I would say though that Beckmann tries to cram a lot of artworks in, so she doesn't go so much into detail for some of them. I would have preferred if she presented fewer artworks and just went more in-depth about them. Grading is pretty fair and is based on two exams, three short essays (one optional), and a final project. All of these were alright, but the exams definitely require studying. There is a supplemental textbook that is an interesting read, but I honestly don't think it was integrated into the course that well. My biggest issue with the course was the discussions- we didn't do much during them at all. But, all in all, this is an interesting and easy GE for those who want to learn more about the ancient past.

All the lectures are recorded, so literally (I'm not saying I endorse this), you really don't have to go to lectures. I binge-watched all the lecture videos and did well on both the midterms, so I would only study for this class the week of the midterms (2) and one final project (super easy!). Discussions are mandatory, though, but my TA was chill and it was helpful for the tests.

Professor Beckmann is such a great professor. Not only are her lectures very direct (also recorded and not mandatory attendance) but it is clear she is very passionate about this topic as she is able to speak about personal experiences almost every lecture. She is genuinely very kind and gave us a very manageable workload throughout the quarter. I would highly recommend taking this class just because of the professor!