This course will look at key themes and issues in Roman visual media from the later Republic to the end of the 2nd century AD, with occasional consideration of earlier and later evidence where appropriate. Based on evidence from Italy, it will place developments in Roman architecture, sculpture and painting within their wider social and political setting as well as their art historical context. It will examine the role of public and private buildings in Roman cities not simply in utilitarian terms but also as social and political tools and consider the style, content and purpose of decorative media in both public and private contexts. Issues of lost works and reconstruction will also be taken into account.