FInal paper art hist

THESIS STATEMENT AND OUTLINE EXAMPLE

The Taj Mahal’s visual extravagance is an expression of political domination at the court of Shah Jahan.

FORMAL ANALYSIS

· Multiplicity of shape; pattern

· Color of materials

· Scale of structure

· Play of light and shadow on structure

· Mausoleum within the context of entire planned complex

ICONOGRAPHY

· Related to identity of Nur Jahan

· Visual Complexity – Islamic ideals of spiritual expression

· Geometric perfection as expression of religious belief

· Taj Mahal as connection between heavens and earth

· Iconography of color of materials

ICONOLOGY

· Political structure of the court of Shah Jahan

· Spread of Islam into India

· Courtly marriages and relationships in Mughal Empire

· The Shah as power broker

· Conceptions of romantic love in Mughal Empire