Location

Venice, Italy

Program Description

Information Session

October 22nd from 5- 6PM on Zoom Passcode: 662640

Experience Venice, Italy, one of the most unique and culturally rich cities in the world, through this three-credit course designed to help students explore the arts and humanities through interaction with one of Europe’s premier city-states. For over 1,000 years, La Serenissima – the republic of Venice – was at the forefront of commerce, politics and finance. From the Middle Ages through the eighteenth century, most states were struggling with growing sufficient foodstuffs to feed their citizens, and many were in a near constant state of war. Venice was arguably the richest and most stable city in the western world during this time. The arts and humanities flourished in this environment, and we will investigate not only the cultural products, but discuss the circumstances that led to these phenomena, and how Venice left an enduring legacy for western civilization. Further we will compare and contrast the arts and humanities in Venice to other western centers, as well as explore Venice’s influence on contemporary society in the United States

HUM 250: Foundations of Western Culture: Venice Through the Ages will satisfy the Human Questions and Context requirement in the Arts and Humanities area of General Education. Students will experience the influence of Venetian art through the Gallerie dell'Accademia and the Scuola Grande di San Rocco; explore art and architecture through iconic buildings including Saint Mark’s Basilica, the Doge’s Palace, Basilica dei Santi Giovanni e Paolo, and the Basilica di Sant Maria Gloriosa dei Frari; attend performances of opera and music in historic Venetian theatres; enjoy a master class in the Italian comedic form of Commedia dell’arte; investigate the Venetian influence in the writings of William Shakespeare; participate in workshops and demonstrations on Venetian mask making, Murano glass blowing, and Carnivale costume design and construction; and learn the art of Venetian cuisine through our expert led cooking classes. Our time in Venice will be deeply immersive, and students will learn about our topics through direct interaction with Venetian culture and history.

Hear from previous students:

“Studying abroad in Venice has provided me with the opportunity to immerse myself in a new culture and engage in its traditions. This experience not only strengthened my personal growth but also introduced me to an incredible group of people whom I created lifelong memories with. Living abroad made me realize how important it is to value every moment and taught me to truly cherish each experience I was given.”

Julia Brown

Venice Study Abroad, 2024

“My time in Venice was some of the happiest and explorative moments of my life. When I travel, I tend to stick to touristy areas and activities. When I traveled to Venice with this program, I was able to step out of my comfort zone and experience some of the most unique moments of my life. From seeing the behind the scenes of Venetian masks, to cooking in the home of an Italian couple, I was really immersed in a new culture for weeks. This time gives me deep nostalgia and I cannot express how thankful I am to have been a part of it. Truly will never forget the memories made here and all I learned along the way!” 

Madison Probst 

Venice Study Abroad, 2019 

“This was my first time ever outside of the United States and such a surreal experience for me. I could not have asked for a better instructor or better group of people to travel with. Three weeks seems like a short amount of time in the end, but it truly does not take much for it to stick with you for life.” 

Kiersten Dodson 

Venice Study Abroad, 2018 

Location Description

Our time in Venice will largely be spent in the streets, churches and squares learning how the Venetians integrated the arts and humanities into their world.  Students will experience Venice culture directly through music and theatrical performances, gallery events, arts and crafts demonstrations, architectural tours, and Italian cuisine. 

Throughout our time, students will be immersed in the magical and unforgettable ambience of Venice, Italy! 

Director

John Burgess | burgesjg@jmu.edu | Theatre and Dance

Accommodations

Accommodations will be provided for students through furnished apartments with kitchens and internet access. Housing accommodations are centrally located, and public transportation is included as part of the program.  

Students will be provided a weekly per diem allowance and weekly group meals will also be included.

Additional Items to Consider

Students will need a cell phone, a laptop or tablet, and a current passport. The city of Venice is composed of 126 individual islands that are interlaced by canals and connected by bridges and water buses. The primary form of transportation is walking, so students should bring appropriate clothing and footwear to facilitate foot travel.

Applicant Criteria

Applicants must have a GPA minimum of 2.0.

Open to all majors and class levels.

Proficiency in Italian is a bonus, but is not an expectation.