Discussion:Historical and Modern Ideas of Female Form
While St. Peter's was built through the power and influence of the church, the Palace of Versailles was built through the absolute power of a long-lived monarch. Does the beauty and artistic legacy that each represents justify the expenditures involved? In your opinion, could these structures have been possible without the power behind them? Why or why not?
Look at the female figures that are prominent in the paintings of such masters as Titian. The way they were depicted exemplified what was considered the highest level of feminine beauty for that time. Consider the modern "female ideal form" as portrayed on television, in ads, etc. Then compare and contrast these two ideals of loveliness. Why have attitudes changed so much? Does art reflect the society in which it exists, or does the art influence the values of the society?
Support your work by citing sources according to APA standards.