• Paper writing help
  • Buy an Essay
  • Pay for essay
  • Buy Research Paper
  • Write My Research Paper
  • Research Paper Help
  • Custom Research Paper
  • Custom Dissertation
  • Dissertation Help
  • Buy Dissertation
  • Dissertation Writer
  • Write my Dissertation
  • How it works

Best 120 Art History Topics For A Perfect Essay

Art history is surely not the easiest field to write about. Many students are feeling lost in the world of art and might confuse different painters. How to write an art history research paper? How to create a successful essay? The key to your success is choosing the right topic. In this post, we’ve collected an impressive number of 120 art history research paper topics as well as some tips for writing a brilliant academic paper.

How to Compose A Successful Art History Academic Paper

Creating an art history research paper is similar to writing other types of essays you’ve faced with earlier. However, you need to know some particular features of this type of essay to make your paper shine. Here is a list of hints that will help you create a nice paper on any of the art history topics.

  • Choose a time period you will describe in your paper. One of the most common mistakes of many students is trying to write about the world of art as a whole. However, there are some historical art periods with their own unique trends and novations. Pick up a certain period and stick to your topic when writing an essay.
  • Meet the basic requirements for academic papers. Lots of learners would like to be creative when writing about art. Of course, some types of papers allow sharing your own views and preferences. However, it is still necessary to follow the basic essay structure and formatting.
  • Learn the instructions. As a rule, professors provide students with a list of instructions on writing an art history academic paper. It is better to start working on your essay by learning the basic tips offered by the professor.

Ancient Civilizations: Art History Research Topics

These are topics that might help you discover lots of secrets and mysteries. Ancient worlds have an amazing art history and lots of particular features to describe in your essay.

  • The Sculptures In Ancient World
  • The Secrets Of Egyptian Pyramids
  • The Main Art Tendencies In Ancient Greece
  • The Art In Ancient Rome
  • The Art Of Mesopotamia: Top Facts And Trends
  • The Sculpture In Mesopotamia
  • The Secret Facts About Mesoamerican Pyramids
  • Art In Egypt
  • The Development Of Theater In Greece
  • Challenges Of The Art Development In Ancient Rome
  • Early Art: Hinduism
  • Scythian Art Masterpieces
  • Traditional Japanese Costumes
  • Traditional Chinese Costumes
  • The Development Of Art In Asia
  • Hinduism: The Art Trends That Changed The World
  • Famous Masterpieces Of Ancient Rome Art
  • The Shifts In The Art Development In Ancient Greece
  • The Impact Of God Worship In The Ancient Art
  • God Figures In Ancient Art

The Middle Ages And The Renaissance: Art History Academic Paper Topics

The world of art was changing at railway speed. When looking at the masterpieces created in the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, you will be amazed by how diverse they are. These epochs are incredibly rich in new trends and tendencies, so there are lots of art history compare and contrast essay and topics to choose from.

  • The Role Of Michelangelo In World Art History
  • Mogul Paintings And Their Particular Features
  • The New Styles In Raphael’s Paintings
  • Leonardo da Vinci As A Genius Of His Epoch
  • The Secrets Of Mona Lisa
  • The Masterpieces Of Leonardo da Vinci
  • Bible Scenes In The Art Of Middle Ages
  • History Of Medieval Art
  • Gothic And International Gothic
  • Famous Russian Medieval Icon Painters
  • Types Of Medieval Art
  • Materials Used In Medieval Art
  • Early Christian Artists
  • Byzantine Artists
  • Famous Medieval Artists
  • Nicola Pisano And His Role In The History Of Art
  • Filippo Calendario And His Role In The History Of Art
  • Renaissance Art In Italy
  • The Main Features Of Humanism
  • Renaissance Artists Who Changed The World Of Art
  • Sienese School Of Painting
  • The Main Causes Of The Renaissance

Art History Research Topics: 18th century

There is nothing new that the 18th century is an epoch of the flourish of art in lots of countries. Neoclassicism, Baroque, Rococo, and other styles all appeared during this remarkable period.

  • What Is Baroque Art? The Main Concepts
  • Types Of Baroque Art
  • Baroque Sculpture
  • The Tenebrism And Its Role In The History Of Art
  • The Chiaroscuro And Its Role In The History Of Art
  • Religious Art In The 18th Century
  • The Causes Of Realism
  • The Main Features Of Vanitas Painting
  • Biblical Art
  • Caravaggism Painting Technique
  • Spanish Baroque
  • Flemish Baroque
  • Dutch Baroque
  • Neoclassical Architecture
  • Neoclassical Painting
  • Neoclassical Sculpture
  • Caravaggio And Paintings

Art history thesis essay topics: 19th century

The history of art is full of amazing changes and fantastic innovations. The 19th century is also a period of incredible cultural shifts with outstanding masterpieces created by Vincent Van Gogh, Giovanni Strazza, Monet, and other artists.

  • The Historical Role Of Francisco De Goya
  • Art Nouveau And Its Main Features
  • Decorative Art In 19th Century
  • Applied Art In 19th Century
  • Japonism And Its Main Features
  • Poster Art And Illustration
  • History Of Art Nouveau
  • Evolution Of Art Nouveau
  • Art Nouveau Decorative Glass And Jewellery
  • Famous Art Nouveau Artists
  • Influence Of Art Nouveau
  • Realist Artists
  • History Of Realism In The 19th Century
  • Verismo: The Main Trends
  • Famous 19th-century Realist Paintings
  • Vincent Van Gogh And His Role In History
  • Monet And His Role In History
  • Giovanni Strazza And His Role In History

Art History Research Paper Topics: 20th Century

The 20th century was incredibly dynamic and had lots of important events that changed the world of art. The World Wars, the fast development of technologies, and space exploration had a significant impact on the minds of artists.

  • The Main Trends In Art In The 20th Century
  • Photorealism And Its Main Concepts
  • Hyperrealism: The Basic Features
  • The World Of Cubism
  • Symbolism And Its Meaning
  • Futurism: The Challenges And Prospects
  • Surrealism: The Basic Features
  • Futurism Artists
  • World-known Surrealism Artists
  • Symbolism Artists
  • Famous Hyperrealism Artists
  • Holocaust Art
  • Causes Of Social Realism
  • Ashcan School
  • American Scene Painting
  • American Contemporary Realism
  • Beaux Arts Quartet
  • Magic Realism: The Basic Concepts
  • Cynical Realism In China
  • The Regionalist Style - Characteristics
  • Anti-European Abstraction
  • Why Was Regionalism Important
  • Regionalist Painters
  • Vorticism: The Main Concepts
  • Video Art In The 20th Century

Art History Paper Topics: Argumentative And Analytical

Most students are assigned to write various types of argumentative and analytical topics. However, picking up the topic for deep analysis among the history of art topics might appear to be difficult. Below we’ve created a short collection of essay topics for these purposes to make your job easier. Art history compare and contrast academic essay topics are also available here.

  • Comparative Analysis Of Sculptures Created By Polykleitos And Donatello
  • Style And Design In The 19th And 20th Century
  • The Impact Of Oriental Style On European Culture
  • Comparative Analysis Of Gustave Moreau And Mikhail Vrubel Art
  • Expressionism And Fauvism: An Advanced Analysis
  • Examining The Works Of Monet
  • Realism And Hyperrealism
  • The Difference Between Poster Art And Photorealism
  • The Difference Between Surrealism And Magic Realism
  • Examining The Works Of Leonardo Da Vinci
  • The Main Features Of Ancient Greek And Ancient Roman Art
  • The Analysis Of Venetian Paintings
  • The Main Challenges Of Victorian Art
  • Examining The Works Of Adolph Von Menzel
  • The Main Trends In The 20th-century Architecture
  • Rococo And Neoclassical Portraits

How To Create Papers On Art History

Most young learners consider art-related topics to be among the most difficult areas to write about. The matter is that the world of art is incredibly diverse with lots of trends and tendencies that appeared in different periods of time. Moreover, it is often complicated to choose the style of the piece of art you are writing about. What should you do to succeed in writing academic papers of this kind?

  • Do advanced research. Searching online and in your local library will surely take you plenty of time. Determining the differences between impressionism and realism requires having a deep understanding of both styles of art.
  • Polish your writing skills. Your paper should be well-structured and have no mistakes or typos. This means you need to have exceptional writing abilities and excellent grammar skills.
  • Have perfect formatting. Most professors will downgrade the scores for your essay in case you’ve chosen a wrong formatting style. Therefore, pay extra attention to this feature, too.

But what if you are not good at writing essays? Fortunately, there is a great solution to this issue. Pay for essay online and get a professionally written essay within the shortest terms. By the way, our expert writers can take care of the academic paper of any level of difficulty.

REFERENCES:

  • Writing tips for students
  • Prompts for easy research
  • Art history timeline
  • The basic concepts of art history
  • Books on art history
  • How to write an art history paper
  • Art history short facts

10 Topic Ideas for Art History Papers

  • Art History
  • Architecture
  • Ph.D., Art History, City University of New York Graduate Center
  • M.A., Art History, State University of New York at Binghamton
  • B.A., Art History, State University of New York at Binghamton

If you have been assigned a paper for art history class , you know how overwhelming this can be, with thousands of years of art history to consider. Here are 10 topics that might fire you up for the task. Consider each of the topic ideas and examples to help you find your own inspiration.

Analyze One Work of Art

ERIC FEFERBERG / Getty Images 

Research and analyze a specific work of art.

For example, Leonardo da Vinci's  Mona Lisa  painting may be the most famous painting in the world. It is probably also the best-known example of sfumato, a painting technique partly responsible for her enigmatic smile.

Compare and Contrast Works From One Movement

Cate Gillon / Getty Images

Research a particular movement of art, such as  Color Field Painting , which was practiced by the Abstract Expressionist family of artists.

Like Action Painting, the Color Field artists treat the surface of a canvas or paper as a "field" of vision, without a central focus, and emphasize the flatness of the surface. Color Field Painting is less about the process of making the work, which is at the heart of Action Painting: instead, Color Field is about the tension created by overlapping and interacting areas of flat color.

Write a Screenplay About an Artist's Life

Francis G. Mayer  / Getty Images

Research an artist's life and write an interpretation of his or her biography as if it were a movie.

For example, Gustave Courbet was a French painter best known as one of the founders of the Realism movement during the 19th century. He worked on still-life paintings, landscapes, and human figures, and often addressed social issues in his work. Some of his paintings were considered controversial by contemporary audiences.

Write About One Notable Museum and Its Collection

rarrarorro / Getty Images

Write about the history of one particular museum.

Founded in 1929, the Museum of Modern Art, known as MoMA, has a collection that includes examples of modern art from the late 19th century to the present day. The collection represents diverse forms of visual expression that encompass modern art, including paintings, sculptures, photographs, films, drawings, illustrations, architecture, and design.

Challenge a 'Myth' About a Famous Artist

Mario Tama  / Getty Images

Investigate a popular myth about an artist and write a paper challenging the myth and providing evidence of the truth.

Although the story goes that post-Impressionist painter Vincent van Gogh (1853–1890) sold only one painting during his short life, there is some evidence that is not true. The one painting commonly thought to have been sold is The Red Vineyard at Arles ( The Vigne Rouge ). But some sources claim that different paintings sold first, and that other van Gogh paintings and drawings were sold or bartered.

Investigate an Artist's Technique and Media

Carl Court / Getty Images

Look into a well-known artist's techniques and the media he or she was known for or which the artist popularized.

The drip paintings of Abstract Expressionist painter Jackson Pollock are among the best-known paintings of the 20th century. When Pollock moved from easel painting to dripping or pouring paint onto a canvas spread on the floor, he was able to create long, continuous lines impossible to get by applying paint to a canvas with a brush.

Challenge Your Comfort Zone

Leemage  / Getty Images

Write about a style or artist you are not as familiar with.

The French artist Georges Seurat introduced Neo-Impressionism , as seen in his 1883 painting "Bathers at Asnieres." To develop his new concept, Seurat studied color theory publications produced by Charles Blanc, Michel Eugène Chevreul, and Ogden Rood. He also formulated a precise application of painted dots that would mix optically for maximum brilliance. He called this system Chromoluminarism.

Explore the Historical Significance of a Museum

Write a different kind of paper on a museum, this time exploring the museum itself and its architecture.

Housed in famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright's beautiful white building, the Guggenheim 's spiral structure offers visitors an intriguing path to travel while exploring the museum's collection and exhibitions that feature modern paintings, sculpture, and film.

Investigate an Artist's Life and Work

ShaBMan567 / Wikipedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0

Write about an artist's life story.

As an undergraduate at Howard University in Washington, D.C., Alma Woodsey Thomas (1921–1924) studied with African-American artist James V. Herring (1887–1969), who founded the art department in 1922, and Lois Mailou Jones (1905–1998). Woodsey Thomas was the first Fine Arts major to graduate from Howard. In 1972, she became the first African-American woman artist to have a solo exhibition at the Whitney Museum of American Art in New York.

Investigate One Period in an Artist's Life

Heritage Images / Getty Images 

Research a particular time in one artist's life or works.

Pablo Picasso became universally famous in his own lifetime as the first artist to successfully use mass media to further his name. He also inspired or, in the notable case of Cubism, invented, nearly every art movement in the 20th century. Before and shortly after moving to Paris, Picasso's painting was in its "Blue Period" (1900–1904).

  • Tips for Writing an Art History Paper
  • Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec: Artist of Bohemian Paris
  • Kerry James Marshall, Artist of the Black Experience
  • The Post-Impressionist Movement
  • Biography of Milton Avery, American Modernist Painter
  • Top 12 Greatest Visual Artists of All Time
  • 10 Tips for Art History Students
  • Grace Hartigan: Her Life and Work
  • An Introduction to Representational Art
  • The Life and Art of Jenny Holzer, Artist of Text-Based Truisms
  • Ad Reinhardt, American Abstract Expressionist Painter
  • The Life and Art of Charles Demuth, Precisionist Painter
  • Aaron Douglas, Harlem Renaissance Painter
  • Life and Work of Hilma af Klint, Western Art's First Abstractionist
  • Biography of Alma Thomas, American Painter of Joyful Abstraction
  • Time Periods of Pottery from Ancient Greece

logo

Art History Thesis Topics: 315 Enticing Ideas

Art History Thesis Topics

Art history entails the study of Art from the ancient era to the present, including cultural ideals, aesthetics, philosophies, and techniques related to Art. People have been immersing themselves in various forms of Art for centuries. As a result, there are a plethora of topics in art history. These topics are the perfect blend of themes and influences. However, it is no surprise that even after these countless research areas, students still need help to choose their topic.

Choosing the right topic is essential for securing top scores. On the contrary, a topic that isn’t worth researching can cost you time, energy, and, most importantly, your grades. Thus, to help students, we have researched some of the most exciting art history thesis topics. Below is a list of some excellent thesis topics that have been thoroughly categorized according to different research areas in art history.

Table of Contents

Essential Suggestions to Choose Excellent Topic

Students can choose their art history topics based on a specific notion, country, or geographic area in mind. According to our expert writers, the ideal topic for a student should be based on a particular form of Art, an artist, or different interpretations of the style.

  • Historical periods such as the medieval, Renaissance, and Hellenistic periods are brilliant areas to study the different artistic activities in those times.
  • Key organizing notions and stylistic characteristics, such as Mannerism, Gothicism, and Modernism, can also be an exciting art thesis topic.
  • Specific groupings of artists can sometimes give rise to excellent art history paper topics relating to artistic and philosophical inclinations known as “movements” or “genres.” These include Fauvism, Bauhaus, and Postmodernism.
  • Materials such as porcelain or bronze and specialized methods like fresco, watercolor, or engraving are potentially fruitful study fields in art history. Combining these artistic materials and styles of a particular period or location is the ideal approach to creating the most brilliant topics for all times.
  • Another important aspect of framing the best art history topic is using a particular period, location, or artist or practitioner as your topic. An example of such a topic can be Mexico’s women photographers during the late 80s or a comparative analysis of the graffiti art of Los Angeles or New York City.

Art History Thesis Topics

Art history topics provide students with a brilliant opportunity to dive deeper into the world of Art. You get to study an array of enticing concepts revolving around the history of the arts. However, even after the endless list of unique paper ideas, it is no surprise that students still have difficulty selecting their “perfect” topic. Students prefer taking  paper writing help from trustworthy writers at Edumagnate.com. Additionally, we’ve enumerated some unique art history paper topics to help and inspire students to deliver an excellent thesis.

Riveting Modern Art Topics for Art History

Modern Art brings innovation to existing styles, forms, and movements. It has played a significant role in replacing traditional forms of Art by experimenting with shapes, lines, texture, and colors. Writing a thesis from this era would give you a thrilling experience filled with exciting facts and breathtaking art forms. Here are some of the best art history topics based on Modern Art:

  • Modern Art from the late 19th century
  • A comparative analysis of classical versus modern Art
  • Milton Avery, the American modernist painter
  • Modern Art and   Desublimation
  • Gustav Klimt’s eclectic style in “The Kiss.”
  • Essential archives of Modern Art
  • A critical review of the effects of globalization on the modern art movements
  • The modern arts in Europe: an overview
  • Contemporary Art in Zimbabwe
  • The European influence on modern Art on American artists
  • Caricatures’ Representation of Contemporary Society
  • Urban Street Art: The Mysteries of Banksy’s Paintings
  • Impressionism vs. Cubism: A Comparative Analysis

Read Also – Sociology Research Topic Ideas

Art History Thesis Topics from the Middle Ages

Art history from this epoch amazes everyone who wants to dig deeper into the interesting facts and theories related to this period. So, if you also enjoy such topics, this section of art history thesis topics on the medieval era might be intriguing to you:

  • The recent advancements in the artwork of Raphael
  • Critical art history and medieval art literature
  • The representation of humanist ideas in the Art of the medieval era
  • Frida Kahlo and her creative works in the 20th century
  • Mogul paintings: an overview
  • The secrets and mysteries associated with the Mona Lisa
  • A closer look at Da Vinci’s masterpieces
  • Gothic and International Gothic artworks
  • A critical analysis of medieval and modern art history
  • Elements of Gothic Art
  • Discrimination against women in medieval art history
  • Gothic Art in the medieval era
  • The greatest Russian medieval painters of all time
  • History of photography
  • The astonishing Art of the Mughal empire
  • Evolution of paintings from an art history perspective

Ancient Civilization Art History Thesis Topics

An ancient civilization is considered the cradle of arts. It’s a time of mysteries and secrets. Some artists still draw inspiration from famous ancient artworks. This research section will allow you to dig deeper into the spirits of an ancient civilization. Selecting a topic from this list will help you capture the essence of Art in its raw form. If you want to dig deeper into the field of ancient civilization, here are some inspiring topics for you:

  • The Design and Significance of Cartouche in Ancient Egyptian Art
  • Mexico’s women photographers during the late 80s
  • The Secrets Behind the Art and Architecture of ancient Rome
  • The Art of Mesopotamia: Facts and Trends
  • Artifact Study Reveals Ancient Chinese Culture Characteristics
  • The Sculpture of Mesopotamia
  • Chinese Ritual of Bronzes in Ancient China
  • The hidden connection between the Egyptian and Mayan pyramids?
  • The Secret Facts and Mysteries of Mesoamerican Pyramids
  • Early Art in Hinduism
  • How Ancient Civilizations Prepared their Way for Modern Art
  • Scythian Art Masterpieces: An Overview
  • Religion and Culture in Aztec Art
  • Traditional Japanese costumes: an overview
  • An Introduction to Sumerian Art and Culture
  • Ancient Egyptian Funerary Arts
  • Traditional Chinese Costumes
  • The attributes of Minoan Fresco Paintings
  • A comparative analysis between the Celtic art styles of Hallstatt and LA Tene
  • The Development of Art in Asia
  • The Art of Classical Greece
  • A detailed analysis of the artworks of ancient civilization
  • Myths and artworks from the ancient civilization
  • Music of ancient Mesopotamia and Egypt
  • The ancient heritage spread during the Renaissance
  • A detailed study on the Mayan tribes: ancient American civilization
  • The Art of the Amarna period in Egypt

Read Also – 120+ Geology Research Topics to Get You Started

Ancient Greek Art History Topics for Thesis

  • The influence of ancient Greek theatre on modern theatre
  • The secrets and mysteries behind the architecture and Art of ancient Greece
  • Artistic production in Ancient Greece
  • Poetry in ancient Greece
  • Polykleitos: The Ancient Greek Sculptor
  • Development of Art in ancient Greece
  • Ancient Greek artistic culture during the Archaic
  • Inclusion of fresco paintings on ancient Greek structures
  • The significant components of ancient Greek and ancient Roman Art
  • The significance of pottery and vases in Ancient Greek Art

Art History Topics on Artist Bibliographies

When framing a brilliant research paper, nothing could be better than analyzing the life and works of a prominent personality. You get to analyze their personal and professional lives, their struggles, successes, and downfalls all at the same time. Through the following art history thesis ideas, you will dig deeper into the lives of some of the most influential artists in the art world.

Influential Artists from the 18th Century

  • William Blake: A Misunderstood Poet, Visionary, and Artist
  • Madame Tussaud’s Long-Lasting Influence on Art
  • The Life and Career of William Turner
  • Mikhail Lomonosov and His Influence on Science, Education, and Literature
  • Francisco de Goya: Creating Art That Changed the World
  • The masterpieces of Katsushika Hokusai.
  • Francisco Goya, who composed the prominent black paintings
  • Marie Tussaud, the French modeler who founded the wax museum
  • Exploring the lives of Jacques-Louis David, the finest artist of the 18th century
  • The contribution of Eugène Delacroix to the development of Modern Art
  • The life of J.M.W. Turner: the magnificent painter and poet
  • An introduction to the life of the French painter, Eugène Delacroix
  • The Life and Works of John Constable
  • Jean-Auguste-Dominique Ingres: an overview.

Influential Artists from the 19th Century

  • Gustav Klimt: The Master of Symbolism
  • Claude Manet as a Symbol of Impressionism
  • Adolf Menzel and the German Realist Art Period
  • Vincent Van Gogh: The Forgotten Genius
  • Paul Cezanne and a Shift to 20th-Century Art
  • Auguste Renoir, the only surviving Impressionist,
  • Pierre-Auguste Renoir: Innovative Elements and Principles of Art
  • Claude Monet: the painter of light and color
  • Weird Facts About Vincent Willem Van Gogh
  • Alfred Sisley: the most consistent Impressionists

Influential Artists from the 20th Century

  • Frida Khalo was a Mexican painter inspired by Mexican artifacts and nature.
  • Surrealism through magical realism in Frida Kahlo’s work
  • The Art of Pablo Picasso
  • Salvador Dali’s Surreal World,
  • Andy Warhol, a key player in the Pop Art Movement
  • Louise Bourgeois and the Origins of Installation Art in Europe
  • Cultural Appropriations and Identificatory in Emily Carr’s Work
  • The American Pop Art King, Andy Warhol
  • Louise Bourgeois, a pioneer of abstract sculpture and installation art
  • The Face of Abstract Expressionism, Jackson Pollock
  • The mother of American modernism, Georgia O’Keeffe
  • Judy Chicago is a feminist artist, educator, and writer.
  • Marcel Duchamp: Conceptual Art, Dada, and Cubism

Read Also – 100+ Anthropology Research Paper Topics

Art History Thesis Topics for Different Epochs

Every creative era introduces fresh ideas to the field of Art. These are the different stylistic trends, the predominating artistic movement, and the methods employed by artists. You may discover a vast array of distinctive artistic and literary styles, techniques, and subjects, as well as all the significant artists who employed them, by concentrating on a particular creative era in the history of Art. Here are a few eras and associated subjects you can pick from.

18th Century

  • Influence and Contributions of Denis Diderot’s French Art Criticism
  • A Synopsis of Eugene Delacroix’s Career
  • How the Culture of Neoclassicism Combines Old and New Ideas
  • The Relationship Between the Industrial Revolution and Art Development
  • The Late Baroque Style in Architecture
  • Art in the Baroque epoch
  • The First Vienna School’s Most Notable Alumni Association
  • A detailed analysis of the designs of Rococo and Baroque
  • The Rococo Style in Interior Design
  • Marquis de Sade’s Influence on 18th-Century Literature
  • The Characteristics of the Baroque Complex Style

19th Century

  • From a Discarded to a Great Artist: A critical analysis of the life of Edouard Manet
  • Exposing the Connection Between Goya’s Prints and 19th-century French Caricatures
  • Art and education for women in the 19th century
  • The Victorian Beauty Codes and How They Were Reflected in Art
  • The essence of Giovanni Strazza’s “the veiled virgin” carving
  • Why was Paul Gauguin’s artwork called savage?
  • Analysis of “Sunrise” by Claude Monet
  • What Made “The Starry Night” by Vincent van Gogh So Famous Worldwide?
  • Francisco de Goya’s Paintings and Their Significance in Art History
  • Analyzing Edgar Degas’s Famous Dancer Paintings: Capturing the Movement

20th Century

  • The Basic and Advanced Principles of Futurism Under a Magnifying Glass
  • The Symbolism in Frida Kahlo’s Paintings
  • Pushing the Boundaries: Jackson Pollock’s Special Approach to Making Art
  • The Impact of Kazimir Malevich on the Evolution of Abstract Art
  • The Expressionist Elements Prominent in Edvard Munch’s Works
  • Dali’s Art: An Examination of Consciousness and Dreams
  • Abstract Expressionism’s Distinctive Methods
  • The Reconciliation or War Between the Styles in Gustav Klimt’s Work
  • How cultural attitudes influenced pop art and the use of familiar objects in Art
  • What Makes the Best Concept Art Pieces Unique?
  • Baroque art and architecture movements
  • The Key Artists and Paintings of the Baroque Period
  • Philosemitism in the Baroque Period
  • Art and architecture in the Baroque Period
  • A comparative analysis of the Baroque and Rococo stylistic periods
  • Gender portrayals in the Baroque Period

Romanticism

  • Artistic, literary, and musical Romanticism
  • Sublime Art in the 19th Century
  • 19th-Century Romantic Aesthetics
  • Romanticism in 20th-Century Literature
  • The social influence of literary and artistic Romanticism
  • Romanesque Art and architecture
  • The artistic culture of the Romanticism and Positivism eras
  • The roots of Romanticism
  • The correlation between Romanticism and gender
  • Understanding Romanticism as an anthology

Best Art History Topics from Various Cultures

Writing a thesis based on the different cultures around the world isn’t a challenging task. Once you’ve decided on a topic, you can find many credible resources and information on any culture. So, here are some of the best ideas about different cultures worldwide.

  • Art in the Renaissance Period
  • The Cultural Legacy of African Americans and Their Contribution to Modern American Art
  • How Iranian Culture is Reflected in Iranian Cinema
  • “The Holy Virgin Mary” by Chris Ofili
  • Discuss Islamic arts in ancient Africa.
  • The importance of Art for ritual life in Africa
  • The evolution of Art in the Hellenistic period
  • Art and socio-politics in Africa
  • War Dance as a Cross-Cultural Phenomenon
  • The Nubian Pyramids at Meroe
  • Analyze modern Art in Zimbabwe.
  • Art in Tanzania: a critical analysis
  • Strangers in African Art
  • Origin and development of Art in India
  • Paul Gauguin and savagery
  • Dance as a Cross-Cultural Form of Art
  • The Styles, Materials, and Cultural Origins of Japanese Calligraphy
  • A detailed analysis of the prehistoric Art of Europe
  • Cross-Cultural Perspectives on Music and Dance
  • “Origin of the World” by Gustave Courbet
  • Textile and Fashion of Nomadic Asian Tribes
  • Buddhist Art in India
  • Art in the Mannerism period
  • The tribal icons of African Art
  • Marcel Duchamp as a controversial artist
  • Arts and culture in India
  • Yoko Ono as the controversial and groundbreaking artist
  • Modern Dance Styles and Their Origins
  • The Unique Features and Styles Found in the Hindi Film Industry
  • Performance art in China

Read Also – 180+ Immigration Research Topics

Art History Thesis Topics Based on Impressionism

Impressionism was a significant movement in the 19th century. This style gave birth to the artistic style of capturing the moment, feeling, or experience, especially in its changing effects of light and color. Check out these excellent art history paper topics and pick the best one.

  • The origins of impressionism
  • How Impressionism Modified the Foundational Concepts of Art
  • Monet and Manet’s Views of Nature
  • Art and modernity in impressionism
  • The life of Claude Manet: the founder of impressionism
  • Edgar Degas and His Ballet Dancers’ Social Impact
  • The French Impressionists: Changing the Face of Art
  • Impressionist Auguste Renoir: The Final Representative of Impressionism
  • The Ancient Culture of Art
  • Rococo interior design
  • Cubism vs. Impressionism: A Comparative Analysis
  • Different approaches to impressionism used by the pioneers or artists
  • The impact of impressionism on the hierarchy of arts
  • Influence of impressionism in Japan
  • An overview of the impressionist art movements
  • Impressionism and post-impressionism
  • Critical changes in painting techniques occurred throughout the impressionist era.
  • Differences between impressionism and realism
  • Why Canon and Traditions Were Against Impressionism
  • The impact of the sketch-like appearance

Art History Topics Based on the Renaissance

Researching and writing about Renaissance-related art history topics will be challenging. However, you must know that these research topics are trendy among professors and students. Could you give it a try?

  • The anatomy of the human figure in Art
  • Discuss the strange altarpieces of the Renaissance era.
  • Discuss the concept of humanism.
  • A thorough examination of rationality throughout the Renaissance
  • Realism throughout the Renaissance.
  • Fresco cycles: an overview
  • The evolution of secularism over the years
  • The role of light in paintings
  • A detailed examination of linear perspective
  • Landscape in Renaissance art

Topics for Art History Based on Photography

Yes, photography is also an art form—a visual art form, to be precise. This field of Art can capture emotions, moments, and perspectives. If you are interested in this field.

  • Using lighting for photography strategically
  • The history of photography
  • Camera Obscura: The First Ancestor of Modern Photography
  • The influence of digital evolution on photography
  • Remark on three of the most well-known photographers’ artistic expressions.
  • Documenting the artist’s vision on camera
  • The Problems with Lenses and the 19th-century Solution
  • A detailed study on the social impact and significance of war photography during wars
  • How photography transformed Art
  • About Vivian Maier Mysteries: The Secret Archives of Her Street Photography
  • Timing and framing strategies
  • The History of Photography through centuries
  • Do photos qualify as Art?
  • Ansel Adams’s role in associating photography with the fine arts
  • The many lighting options in a picture studio
  • Is war photography an artistic medium?
  • The significance of architecture and photography in the modern age
  • Using images to convey emotions
  • The career and life of Alfred Stieglitz
  • The Role of Photography in films
  • Self-portrait photography: beyond the selfies

Art History Thesis Topics Based on Architecture

Given how the present technology boom influences every element of our lives and the necessity for in-depth research, architecture is a crucial and timely field. It is one of the oldest forms of Art in global history. Check out the following art history thesis topics on architecture:

  • Denis Abbey Church’s significance for Gothic design
  • The significance of architecture in ancient times
  • The significance of Art in architecture in the ancient era
  • Politics and women’s positions in Ancient Rome’s architecture
  • Constructivism in architecture
  • Neoclassical Architecture
  • The main trends and styles in 20th-century architecture
  • The secrets behind the architecture in ancient Rome
  • The elements of Gothic architecture
  • The impact of Roman architecture on modern designs
  • A comparative analysis between Art Nouveau and Art Deco?
  • The Late Baroque Architecture
  • Greek architecture in the Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian styles: a comparative analysis
  • A detailed analysis of the late Gothic arts and architecture
  • The late Baroque architecture
  • What was the influence of eastern Art and designs on western architecture?
  • The impact of constructivism on architecture
  • Ancient and modern architecture: an overview
  • History of Indian architecture
  • Influence of Islamic architecture on western architecture
  • The great mysteries of the pyramid construction
  • An introduction to indigenous African architecture

Art History Paper Topics for Theatre

During ancient times, watching the theatre was one of the people’s most important forms of entertainment. Through time, the theater has significantly evolved to become a constant source of entertainment for us. Theater helps us gain perspective on the outside world, understand different cultures, and much more. Go through the following topics and pick out the best for you:

  • Greek theatre in the ancient times
  • Understanding theatre as an art
  • The history of Greek theatre
  • A handbook on the impact of ancient Greek theatre on the modern one
  • Contribution of William Shakespeare to British Drama and Theatre
  • A comparative analysis of the Elizabethan theatre and the modern theatre
  • Understanding the Theater of the Absurd about “Waiting for Godot” by Samuel Beckett
  • The history of Broadway musicals and theatres
  • How did theatre evolve in ancient times?
  • Theater as a force for social and cultural evolution

Final Words

Art is considered one of the vast fields that offer students an endless amount of topics to research. There needs to be more ground to cover, which makes it challenging for students to choose the right art topic and frame their thesis. For your help, our writers have thoroughly enumerated these unique and exciting topics. Our significant goal is to mentor or guide students and help them with their academic curricula. Our thesis help services are to free students from their academic problems; for that, we are available round-the-clock. This post will allow you to find the perfect topic and start your writing journey.

' src=

By Alex Brown

I'm an ambitious, seasoned, and versatile author. I am experienced in proposing, outlining, and writing engaging assignments. Developing contagious academic work is always my top priority. I have a keen eye for detail and diligence in producing exceptional academic writing work. I work hard daily to help students with their assignments and projects. Experimenting with creative writing styles while maintaining a solid and informative voice is what I enjoy the most.

  • Harvard Library
  • Research Guides
  • Faculty of Arts & Sciences Libraries

History of Art & Architecture

Articles & more.

  • Key Resources
  • Encyclopedias, Dictionaries, & Bibliographies
  • Books (& ebooks!)
  • Primary Sources
  • Digital Images
  • Virtual Museums & Architectural Sites
  • Auction Sales & Provenance

Art Librarian

Profile Photo

Some of these indexes contain references only to articles in journals or newspapers while others include references to essays and papers in conference proceedings, multi-author monographs, Festschriften, and dissertations. 

  • America's Historical Newspapers (1690-1876) Full-text database of newspapers published in the United States, formerly available only in microform, from all 50 states. Includes Early American Newspapers Series 1 - 7, 1690-1922; African American Newspapers, 1827-1998 and Hispanic American Newspapers, 1808-1980.
  • AATA Online: Abstracts of International Conservation Literature AATA Online provides high quality, editorially-reviewed abstracts of the international literature of conservation and heritage management. Updated quarterly, AATA Online currently includes abstracts of over 100,000 citations. More than 470 journals are indexed in AATA Online. The database is searchable by keywords or phrases and employs proximity features. Free registration allows advanced searching and the creation of publication alert services.
  • Art Full Text Art Full Text is a bibliographic database that indexes and abstracts periodicals and includes full-text coverage for selected titles. Indexing coverage includes English-language periodicals, yearbooks, and museum bulletins, as well as periodicals published in French, Italian, German, Japanese, Spanish, Dutch, and Swedish. In addition to articles, Art Full Text indexes reproductions of works of art that appear in indexed periodicals. Indexing coverage begins 1984; abstracting coverage begins with January 1994. The abstracts range from 50 to 300 words and describe the content and scope of the source articles. Full-text coverage begins in 1997. Art Full Text and Art Index Retrospective may be searched simultaneously.
  • Art Index Retrospective ( 1929-1984 ) Art Index Retrospective is a periodical literature database that cumulates citations from the printed version of the Wilson Art Index, volumes 1-32 (1929-1984). The database cites articles from periodicals, yearbooks, and museum bulletins internationally in English, French, Italian, German, Spanish, and Dutch publications. In addition to articles, Art Index Retrospective also indexes reproductions of works of art that appear in the periodicals covered. Subjects covered in the Art Index Retrospective include archaeology, architecture and architectural history, art history, painting, sculpture, photography, decorative arts, folk art, crafts, antiques, graphic arts, industrial design, interior design, landscape architecture, motion pictures, museum studies, non-western art, advertising and television. Exhibition and book reviews are included. Art Index Retrospective & Art Full Text may be searched simultaneously.
  • ARTbibliographies Modern Contains abstracts of journal articles, books, essays, exhibition catalogs, dissertations, and exhibition reviews. The scope extends from artists and movements beginning with Impressionism in the late 19th century, up to the most recent works and trends in the late 20th century. Photography is covered from its invention in 1839 to the present. Particular emphasis is placed on adding new and lesser-known artists and on the coverage of foreign-language literature. Approximately 13,000 new entries are added each year. Covers all aspects of modern and contemporary art, including performance art and installation works, video art, computer and electronic art, body art, graffiti, artists' books, theater arts, crafts, jewelry, illustration, and more, as well as the traditional fine arts of painting, printmaking, sculpture, and drawing.
  • Avery Index to Architectural Periodicals The Avery Index to Architectural Periodicals indexes more than 2,500 international periodicals on archeology, city planning, interior design, and historic preservation, as well as architecture. Coverage begins in the 1930s (with selective coverage dating back to the 1860s) and extends to the present.
  • Bibliography of the History of Art: BHA The Bibliography of the History of Art indexes and abstracts art-related books, conference proceedings and dissertations, exhibition and dealer's catalogs, and journal articles from more than 2,500 periodicals. Coverage extends to European and American art from late antiquity to the present. This index provides the most comprehensive coverage of American and international scholarly journals in the disciplines of art and architectural history. It also contains an important earlier periodical index, the RĂŠpertoire international de la littĂŠrature de l'art (RILA). Current coverage is 1975-2007. The BHA is continued by the International Bibliography of Art.
  • caa.reviews caa.reviews publishes timely scholarly and critical reviews of studies and projects in all areas and periods of art history, visual studies, and the fine arts, providing peer review for the disciplines served by the College Art Association. Publications and projects reviewed include books, articles, exhibitions, conferences, and other works as appropriate. It also publishes essays on these subjects, as well as on art education and policy and related topics.
  • EBSCO Academic Search Premier Academic Search Premier (ASP) is a multi-disciplinary database that includes citations and abstracts from over 4,500 scholarly publications (journals, magazines and newspapers). Full-text is available for more than 3,500 of the publications and is searchable. Indexing and full text availability varies with title. The most complete coverage begins in the 1990s. A wide variety of art history journals is included in this database.
  • Index to 19th Century American Art Periodicals The Index to 19th-Century American Art Periodicals indexes 42 art journals published in the US during the 1800s, providing nearly complete coverage of journals from this period. The Index describes the entire journal contents - articles, art notes, illustrations, stories, poems, and advertisements - and offers information on popular culture and industry, artists and illustrators, painting, sculpture, drawing, photography, architecture and design, exhibitions and sales, decorations, and collecting.
  • International Bibliography of the History of Art (IBA) The International Bibliography of the History of Art is the successor to the Bibliography of the History of Art (BHA) and includes the most recent indexing created by the Getty Research Institute for the BHA during 2008-2011. ProQuest will continue to add approximately 25,000 new entries each year and will index at least 500 journals. Coverage of monographs, essay collections, conference proceedings, and exhibition catalogues will also be included. The BHA, now available directly from the Getty Research Institute, provides the most comprehensive coverage of American and international scholarly journals in the disciplines of art and architectural history from 1975-2007.
  • Index Islamicus Online database drawn from the printed bibliography, Index Islamicus, covering worldwide literature in English and European languages on Islam, the Middle East, and the Muslim world from 1906–present. The Index Islamicus, produced by the Islamic Bibliography Unit at Cambridge University Library, is a bibliography of publications in European languages on all aspects of Islam and the Muslim world and provides access to over 2,000 journals and series. The Index also covers conference proceedings, monographs, multi-authored works, and book reviews.
  • Iter Bibliography: Gateway to the Renaissance The Iter bibliography, compiled by the University of Toronto, covers Medieval and Renaissance studies literature and contains over 1,000,000 citations for journal articles, essays, books, and dissertation abstracts. Coverage begins in 1784 and continues, with variations by individual title, to the present.
  • JSTOR JSTOR is a not-for-profit organization initially funded by the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation, dedicated to the development of a digital library in support of the arts and sciences. JSTOR is comprised of the full-text of more than 1,000 academic journals covering a wide range of disciplines. Approximately 165 art, architectural history, and archaeology titles are included. JSTOR supports browsing by issue and full-text searching in individual journals or entire subject collections.
  • Readers' Guide Retrospective Readers' Guide Retrospective indexes popular and general interest magazines published in the United States and Canada from 1890-1982.
  • The Nation Archive A journal of politics, economics, education, foreign policy, labor, law and other social issues, literature and the arts, from 1865 - present.
  • Times Digital Archive This database contains all issues of the London Times, 1785-1985, in full text and image, including news, features, editorials and commentary, advertising, pictures and illustrations. Searching is by keyword in the full-text.
  • Vogue Archive The Vogue Archive contains the entire run of Vogue magazine (US edition), from the first issue in 1892 to the current month, reproduced in high-resolution color page images. Every page, advertisement, cover and fold-out has been included, with rich indexing enabling you to find images by garment type, designer and brand names.
  • << Previous: Books (& ebooks!)
  • Next: Primary Sources >>
  • Last Updated: Aug 13, 2024 10:20 AM
  • URL: https://guides.library.harvard.edu/art_history

Harvard University Digital Accessibility Policy

art history research paper topics 20th century

Verify originality of an essay

Get ideas for your paper

Cite sources with ease

150+ Captivating Art Research Paper Topics Ideas

Updated 30 Aug 2024

Choosing the right topic for an art research paper is crucial for your academic success. If you pick one you’re passionate about, you can showcase your knowledge, creativity, and critical thinking and provide a unique perspective on the subject matter. You can engage and entice the reader and ensure your research stays viable in the future. Exploring unique art research paper topics can be daunting, but if you're short on time, you might opt to pay someone to write my paper for a well-researched and insightful piece.

People have been creating art for centuries, so there are countless art research paper topics to choose from. To pick the right one, you should:

  • Choose an art branch - There are literature, music, film, performing (e.g., theater and dance) and visual arts (e.g., painting, drawing, sculpture, architecture, etc.), other branches to choose from.
  • Select a specific aspect - You can opt for an artistic movement, a specific period, a particular artist, or decide to analyze a specific work of art.
  • Come up with several ideas - Brainstorm different ideas you’re interested in analyzing and conduct research to find relevant information on each. That way, you’ll discover numerous art research topics to use as inspiration. Make sure there are enough credible sources to support your research.
  • Narrow down your topic - Lock in on one or two ideas that will help you write a detailed, thought-provoking, and engaging research paper.

To help you narrow down the list, we’ve rounded up some of the most interesting art topics for research papers. Read on to get some inspiration for your writing assignment.

Riveting Modern Art Research Paper Topics

Modern art brings innovation in movements, forms, and styles, replacing conservative values in the spirit of experimenting with shapes, lines, and colors. Check out some of the most enticing topic ideas.

  • Breaking Away from Conventions: The Unique Style of Modern Art
  • Impressionism vs. Cubism: The Elements of Time and Light
  • The Rise of Digital Arts
  • Graffiti: Vandalism or Art?
  • Urban Street Art: The Mystery of Banksy
  • The Eclectic Style of “The Kiss” by Gustav Klimt
  • The Influence of Modern European Art on American Artists
  • The Impact on Japanese Art on Van Gogh’s Paintings
  • Art and Feminism: Contemporary Themes Driving the Movement
  • Printmaking in the 21st century
  • The Evolution of Abstract Expressionism in Contemporary Art
  • The Role of Feminism in Shaping Modern Art Movements
  • The Intersection of Art and Artificial Intelligence: Creative Collaborations
  • Political Activism Through Modern Art: Case Studies and Analysis
  • Minimalism in Modern Art: Philosophical Underpinnings and Aesthetic Principles

Most Interesting Art History Research Paper Topics

Art history teaches you to analyze the visual and textual evidence in various artworks to understand how different artists saw the world and expressed their emotions. Here are some of the most exciting topics.

  • Artistic Freedom vs. Censorship: Art in Nazi Germany
  • From Canvas to Camera: Photography as Art
  • Gothic Art in Medieval England
  • The Death of the Author: Barthes’s Theory Debunked
  • The History of Abstract Expressionism
  • Art and Culture: An Intellectual History
  • Expressionism in Western Europe
  • Hidden Messages in Famous Works of Art
  • Art as Propaganda in France and America
  • Wartime Art: A Visual History of Warfare
  • A History of Neoclassical Art
  • Victorian Beauty Standards in Art
  • Constructivism: The Birth of the Russian Avant-Garde
  • Gothic Culture: History, Literature, and Visual Arts
  • The Rise of Sequential Art: The History of Comics and Graphic Novels

Get plagiarism-free papers in just 3 hours

  • Zero AI - 100% human-crafted content
  • Tailored to your writing style
  • Sourced from the latest, reliable sources

Guaranteed Turnitin success ✌️

Banner

Art Topics on Ancient Civilizations

Artworks dating back millennia reveal a lot about different ancient civilizations. Their artistic contributions are still significant today, especially in modern architecture. If you want to analyze their artwork, here are some of the best art research topics you can use.

  • Symbolism in Ancient Egyptian Art
  • The Art History of Ancient Rome
  • Ancient Greek Sculpture: The Art of Classical Greece
  • Primeval Musical Instruments in Mesopotamia and Ancient Egypt
  • Ancient Roman vs. Classical Greek Art
  • The Impact of the Mayan Civilization on Ancient Art and Culture
  • The Influence of Mayan Culture in Modern Architecture
  • Egyptian Pyramids vs. Mayan Pyramids: Is There a Hidden Connection?
  • Ancient Art History: The Origins and Purpose of Writing
  • The Impact of Ancient Civilizations on Art History
  • The Incas and Their Influence on Modern Art
  • The Role of Religion and Culture in Aztec Art
  • Ancient Chinese Art: The Role of Chinese Philosophy and Religion
  • Chinese Ritual Bronzes: Understanding the Ancient Ritual Vessels
  • Mythology in the Artworks of Ancient Civilizations

Engrossing Art Research Paper Topics on Artist Biography

Analyzing the life and work of a particular artist can help you understand them better and uncover the symbolism and hidden meanings in their work. Let’s go over some engaging art topics for research papers, covering some of the most influential artists in history.

18th century:

  • William Blake: A Misunderstood Artist, Poet, and Visionary
  • Francisco de Goya: Changing the World Through Art
  • Eugène Delacroix and the Rise of Modern Art
  • Madame Tussaud and Her Lasting Impact on Art
  • The Life and Career of William Turner
  • Ludwig van Beethoven: The Mystic Principles in Romantic Art, Literature, and Music
  • Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart: The Life and Work of the Musical Genius
  • The Artistic Journey of Jean-Honoré Fragonard
  • The Influence of Neoclassicism on Jacques-Louis David's Works
  • The Portraiture Legacy of Thomas Gainsborough

19th century:

  • Vincent Van Gogh: The Misunderstood Genius Ahead of His Time
  • Pierre-Auguste Renoir: Innovative Elements and Principles of Art
  • Gustav Klimt: The Master of Symbolism
  • Claude Monet and His Vision of Light and Color
  • Edgar Degas: A Storyteller of Modern Parisian Life
  • Paul Cézanne: The Father of Modern Art
  • The Romantic Imagination of William Blake
  • The Innovations of Eugène Delacroix in Color and Form
  • Gustave Courbet: Realism and Rebellion in 19th Century Art
  • The Mystical Landscapes of John Constable

20th century:

  • Pablo Picasso: The Father of Cubism
  • Frida Kahlo: Surrealism Through Magical Realism
  • The Surreal World of Salvador Dalí
  • Andy Warhol: The American Pop Art King
  • Jackson Pollock: The Face of Abstract Expressionism
  • Georgia O’Keeffe: The Mother of American Modernism
  • Louise Bourgeois: A Revolutionary in Abstract Sculpture and Installation Art
  • The Evolution of Pablo Picasso's Artistic Style
  • The Role of Surrealism in Salvador Dalí's Career
  • The Abstract Expressions of Jackson Pollock

Thought-Provoking Art Research Topics on Different Epochs

Every creative epoch brought something new to the art world. If you focus on a specific creative epoch in art history, you can explore a whole world of unique artistic and literary styles, techniques, themes, and all the influential artists that used them. Here are some of the epochs and related topics to choose from.

  • The Dramatic Use of Light and Shadow in Caravaggio's Paintings
  • The Influence of the Counter-Reformation on Baroque Art
  • The Architectural Innovations of Gian Lorenzo Bernini
  • The Emotional Expression in Peter Paul Rubens' Works
  • The Role of Allegory in Baroque Sculpture

Romanticism

  • The Depiction of Nature in the Works of Caspar David Friedrich
  • The Romantic Hero in the Paintings of Eugène Delacroix
  • The Influence of Literature on Romantic Art
  • The Exploration of the Sublime in J.M.W. Turner's Landscapes
  • The Representation of National Identity in Francisco Goya's Art

Impressionism

  • The Influence of Japanese Woodblock Prints on Impressionist Artists
  • The Role of Urbanization in the Works of Edgar Degas
  • The Use of Light and Color in Claude Monet's Paintings
  • The Everyday Life in the Art of Pierre-Auguste Renoir
  • The Evolution of Outdoor Painting in the Impressionist Movement

Post-impressionism

  • The Symbolic Use of Color in Vincent van Gogh's Works
  • The Exploration of Pointillism by Georges Seurat
  • The Influence of Primitivism on Paul Gauguin's Art
  • The Structural Innovations in Paul Cézanne's Paintings
  • The Emotional Depth in the Art of Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec
  • The Analytical Cubism of Pablo Picasso and Georges Braque
  • The Influence of African Art on Cubist Works
  • The Evolution of Synthetic Cubism
  • The Impact of Cubism on Modern Sculpture
  • The Role of Fragmentation in Cubist Art
  • The Exploration of the Unconscious in Salvador Dalí's Art
  • The Influence of Freud's Theories on Surrealist Artists
  • The Role of Automatism in Surrealist Painting
  • The Use of Symbolism in René Magritte's Works
  • The Intersection of Surrealism and Literature in the Works of Max Ernst

Compelling Renaissance Essay Topics

Marking the transition from the Middle Ages to the modern world, the Renaissance was a period of cultural and artistic rebirth. If you’re looking for compelling art essay topics on this fervent era, here are some ideas for inspiration.

  • Humanism and Naturalism in Renaissance Art
  • Religious Symbolism in Renaissance Art
  • Leonardo da Vinci and His Influence on Renaissance Art
  • Michelangelo’s David: An Icon of the Italian Renaissance
  • The Sistine Chapel: Michelangelo’s Immortal Masterpiece
  • The Transcendent Influence of Raphael’s Paintings
  • “The Birth of Venus” by Botticelli: Mythology and Realism
  • The Influence of Science on Renaissance Art and Culture
  • The Harlem Renaissance: Driving Social Change Through Art
  • The Unity of Art and Music in the Renaissance Era
  • The Role of Patronage in the Development of Renaissance Art
  • The Influence of Classical Antiquity on Renaissance Humanism
  • The Architectural Innovations of Filippo Brunelleschi
  • The Impact of the Printing Press on Renaissance Literature and Art
  • The Evolution of Portraiture in the Italian Renaissance

Fascinating Photography Topics Ideas

As a type of visual art, photography has the power to evoke emotions, change perspectives, and transform the viewer’s knowledge and perception of art. If you want to dig deeper into photography, here are some cool art essay topics to start with.

  • The History of Photography
  • Camera Obscura: The Ancestor of the Modern Photography
  • The Significance and Social Impact of War Photography
  • The Mystery of Vivian Maier and Her Secret Street Photography
  • The Role of Ansel Adams on Establishing Photography Among the Fine Arts
  • Architectural Photography in the Modern Age
  • The Role of Photography in the Film Industry
  • How Digital Technology Has Changed Photography
  • Self-Portrait Photography: The Art of Selfies
  • The Psychological Impact of Photography
  • The Evolution of Documentary Photography in the 20th Century
  • The Role of Photography in Social Justice Movements
  • The Influence of Digital Technology on Contemporary Photography
  • Exploring the Ethics of Photojournalism
  • The Intersection of Fine Art and Commercial Photography

Best Architecture Research Paper Topics

Architecture is an ever-evolving art form that shapes the world and allows for both practical and expressive designs. Check out some of the best art topics for research papers on architecture.

  • The Influence of Roman Architecture on Modern Design
  • Gothic Architecture: Key Elements of the Iconic Style
  • Art Nouveau vs. Art Deco: A Comparison of the Modern Art Movements
  • Rococo Architecture: The Characteristics of Late Baroque
  • Constructivism in Art and Architecture
  • Sustainability in African Architecture
  • The Influence of Eastern Art on Western Architecture
  • The Egyptian Pyramids: The Mystery Behind the Construction
  • The Influence of Art and Literature on Design and Architecture
  • The Marriage of Art and Architecture in Contemporary Design
  • Urban Architecture: The Internet of Things and Smart City Design
  • Architectural Wonders: Famous Architects and Their Masterpieces
  • The Relationship Between Ancient and Modern Architecture
  • Innovative Design Styles Shaping the Future of Architecture
  • Islamic Architecture and Its Influence on Western Art

Theater Research Paper Topics

Theater helps us see different perspectives, understand different cultures, and dig deeper into our humanity. Thanks to actors’ dramatic performances that make the characters come alive before our eyes, we can experience stories in an attention-grabbing way. Find inspiration for your story in the following topics.

  • The History of Greek Theater
  • The Influence of Ancient Greek Theater on Modern Theater
  • Samuel Beckett and the Theater of the Absurd
  • The Cultural Evolution of Theater
  • Theater as Art: A Force for Social and Cultural Change
  • William Shakespeare and His Contribution to English Drama and Theater
  • Elizabethan Theater vs. Modern Theater
  • The History of Broadway
  • The Role of Music in Theater
  • Improvisation and Expression in Contemporary Theater
  • The Evolution of Tragedy from Ancient Greece to Modern Theater
  • The Role of Women in Shakespearean Plays
  • The Influence of Bertolt Brecht's Epic Theater on Contemporary Performance
  • The Impact of Technology on Modern Theater Productions
  • The Significance of Ritual and Tradition in Indigenous Theatrical Practices

Intriguing Art Research Topics on Different Cultures

Every culture is unique, being an ensemble of different social norms, values, beliefs, and material traits. As such, it influences unique art forms that represent people’s emotions, experiences, and worldviews. If you want to analyze how different cultures influence art, check out these interesting topics.

  • The Role of Cultural Identity in the Creation of Art
  • The Pop Art Movement and Its Influence on American Culture
  • Hollywood vs. Bollywood: Similarities and Differences
  • Japanese Calligraphy: The Fine Art of Writing
  • Traditional Dance Forms: Understanding Different Cultures Through Dance
  • The Influence of Chinese Traditional Clothing on Japanese Culture
  • Ancient Egyptian Culture: Art Principles and Traditions
  • Poetic Realism in the Iranian Cinema
  • French vs. American Artists: Cultural Differences Impacting Their Work
  • Asian and African Tribal Art and Their Effects on Modern Art Movements
  • The Symbolism in Traditional African Masks and Sculptures
  • The Role of Calligraphy in Islamic Art
  • The Influence of Native American Art on Contemporary Design
  • The Evolution of Ukiyo-e and its Impact on Western Art
  • The Significance of Color and Patterns in Indian Textile Art

Get Expert Art Research Assistance at EduBirdie

Here at EduBirdie, we have an extensive team of writers who hold PhD and Master’s degrees in Fine Arts and have years of professional experience. They can help you with research, recommend good art research paper topics, and help you write an impressive paper.

Our research paper writing services include free formatting, citations, editing, proofreading, quick results, punctuality, and 24/7 support. We use high-tech tools to double-check every piece of content for plagiarism and offer unlimited free revisions to ensure you’re satisfied with the quality.

Contact us today to place your order! Tell us more about your project, share all the necessary instructions, pick your writer, and get original, high-quality content at an affordable price!

Was this helpful?

Thanks for your feedback, related blog posts, complete list of 200+ exciting history research paper topics.

Table of contents Which Research Topic is Considered Good Unique History Research Topics Tips Ancient History Research Topics Middl...

How to craft research objectives: guidelines & tips

In the ever-evolving landscape of academic study, having clear and well-defined research objectives is crucial for the success of any work. Study a...

How to Write a Research Paper in APA and MLA Format

Properly formatting a research paper in APA or MLA style is essential for several reasons. First, it ensures that your work adheres to the academic...

Join our 150K of happy users

  • Get original papers written according to your instructions
  • Save time for what matters most

Art History Research Paper Topics: Just Dali It!

Art is a very complex topic to write about if you’re not good at it. You don’t get the symbols, and you don’t understand the artist’s ideas at all. We suggest you to write research papers and essays about art history instead. It’s more about knowledge and research than about understanding the thoughts and feelings of a person you’ve never met in your life.

Check out 60 art history research paper topics and ideas for brilliant essays, prepared by our essay writing service . Plus, we have great art history research paper samples that will serve as a good template for your writing.

Art history research paper topics on ancient civilizations

This subject is for those who want to dig deep! The ancient world is full of mysteries and secrets. Do you like Indiana Jones and Lara Croft movies? These topics will allow you to feel the spirit of history!

  • Features of sculptures in Ancient Greece. The influence of science on sculptures.
  • Compare and contrast Mesoamerican and Egyptian pyramids.
  • The origin of the traditional Japanese and Chinese costumes and their impacts on culture.
  • What were the main reasons for the Roman artistic style shift in the 4th century?
  • The most famous pieces of Mesopotamian art.
  • Compare and contrast the Egyptian and Greek canons of proportions.
  • Hinduism in early Indian art.
  • Construction of the Great Wall of China.
  • The origins of Greek theater.
  • The Scythian gold adornments.

Wanna learn more about the function of Egyptian Art? Check out this sample !

Art history research paper topics: the Middle Ages and the Renaissance

Day and night, life and death, the Middle Ages and the Renaissance – the contrast between these two epochs amazes everyone who is eager to learn more about them. Don’t hesitate to join their ranks!

  • Biblical motives in Leonardo da Vinci’s early paintings.
  • The role of Mughal paintings in forming the image of the Mughal kings in India.
  • Ancient Greek motifs in Michelangelo’s sculpture, “David.”
  • Why was Renaissance art so overwhelmed with Christian symbols and themes?
  • The peculiarities of Raphael’s paintings.
  • The representation of humanistic ideas in Renaissance art.
  • What determined the main principles of Medieval art?
  • The elements of Gothic architecture.
  • The role of troubadours and trouvères in the development of European culture.
  • Renaissance women’s clothing and beauty standards.

The Middle Ages are associated with mostly religious themes. Check out our Jesus Christ research paper about Medieval pictures.

Art history research paper topics: 18th century

The 18th century was a time of glorious musicians and elegant architecture. Learn more about the Baroque style, Neoclassicism, and the Viennese School with our topics.

  • The main features of late Baroque architecture.
  • The history of creating “The Death of Sardanapalus” and its place in Eugène Delacroix’s paintings.
  • What was the influence of the Industrial Revolution on art development?
  • The combination of old traditions and new ideas in Neoclassicism sculpture.
  • Compare and contrast the Baroque and Rococo art styles.
  • The literature of the Enlightenment: the main authors.
  • Famous composers of the First Viennese School.
  • Rococo interior design.
  • Erotic novels by the Marquis de Sade.
  • The importance of Denis Diderot’s critiques for 18th-century French art.

The 18th century wouldn’t be the same without the French Revolution. Our expert compares french Revolution paintings and Greek art in this research paper sample .

Art history research paper topics: 19th century

Artists are very sensitive people. They often sense the changes to come and express these feelings in their paintings. The artists of the 19th century are no exception. See for yourself with the help of our list.

  • Edgar Degas and his “dancing” paintings .
  • Key changes in methodology in paintings in the epoch of Impressionism.
  • Coloristics of “The Starry Night” by Vincent van Gogh.
  • What is so special about the carving “The Veiled Virgin” by Giovanni Strazza?
  • What is so special about the light in Monet’s “Sunrise”?
  • How were Victorian beauty standards depicted in art?
  • The connection between French caricatures of the 19th century and Goya’s prints.
  • Why do paintings by Francisco de Goya have an important historical role?
  • The peculiarities of Paul Gauguin savage art.
  • Why did the critics reject Édouard Manet’s paintings at first?

Read about the beautiful art of Impressionists in our Impressionism research paper sample .

Art history research paper topics: 20th century

In the 20th century, the world went crazy: wars, revolutions, demonstrations, space exploration, etc. Changes touched each sphere of human life. Artists couldn’t stand aside and launched the beginning of new art movements: Surrealism, Cubism, Futurism, and others.

  • Main similarities and differences between the Art Nouveau and Art Deco styles.
  • Surrealism in Salvador Dali’s sculptures.
  • Different mannerisms in Pablo Picasso’s paintings, from Art Nouveau to Cubism: evolution, or just separate periods in his oeuvre?
  • The combination of different art styles in the painting “The Kiss” by Gustav Klimt.
  • The psychology of color in Kazimir Malevich’s works.
  • Realistic and artificial motifs in Jasper John’s “Flag.”
  • What are the peculiar features of Art Deco hotels in French Indochina?
  • The most frequently used symbols in Frida Kahlo’s paintings.
  • The unique technique in Jackson Pollock’s art.
  • The basic principles of Futurism.

Salvador Dali was a truly extraordinary person. Learn more about his relationship with Gala in our essay about art history !

Art history essay topics: argumentative and analytical

Surprisingly, analytical thinking and argumentative strategies can be applied to art. The following topics will be perfect for your essay about art history:

  • Was Hitler’s artwork actually good?
  • Is the majority of modern art a scam?
  • What were the primary aims of the camera obscura and how did it change throughout the years?
  • Compare the critiquing styles of Clement Greenberg and Harold Rosenberg.
  • What is so unusual and unique in Russian icons?
  • The evolution of the uncovered body in paintings of various periods.
  • Why is “Guernica” by Pablo Picasso the most influential painting of the 20th century?
  • Can the Middle Ages be considered as a period of decline in art?
  • Why did Victor Hugo suggest that printing would kill architecture in his novel “The Hunchback of Notre Dame”?
  • Is primitivism real art?

Futurism is a perfect topic to argue about, as it is very ambiguous. Have a try with our Futurism research paper .

We’ve collected these 60 exclusive ideas for your research papers and essays about art history. You can find even more topics (100+!) right here . Your task is to choose the most attractive one for you, and start writing. We know that art can be complex and hard to understand. If the writing process seems too challenging for you, we’re always ready to provide you with support. Our experts write well-structured and informative texts on any topic. Contact us any time to get helpful art history research paper samples easily!

AI tools

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

What our customers say

Our website uses secure cookies. More details

Get professional help from best writers right from your phone

Books

Grab our 3 e-books bundle for $27 FREE

  • Subject List
  • Take a Tour
  • For Authors
  • Subscriber Services
  • Publications
  • African American Studies
  • African Studies
  • American Literature
  • Anthropology
  • Architecture Planning and Preservation

Art History

  • Atlantic History
  • Biblical Studies
  • British and Irish Literature
  • Childhood Studies
  • Chinese Studies
  • Cinema and Media Studies
  • Communication
  • Criminology
  • Environmental Science
  • Evolutionary Biology
  • International Law
  • International Relations
  • Islamic Studies
  • Jewish Studies
  • Latin American Studies
  • Latino Studies
  • Linguistics
  • Literary and Critical Theory
  • Medieval Studies
  • Military History
  • Political Science
  • Public Health
  • Renaissance and Reformation
  • Social Work
  • Urban Studies
  • Victorian Literature
  • Browse All Subjects

How to Subscribe

  • Free Trials

In This Article Expand or collapse the "in this article" section Women, Art, and Art History: Gender and Feminist Analyses

Introduction, foundational texts: gender, history, and paradigm shift.

  • Sources for Women Artists from Classical Antiquity to 17th-Century Europe
  • 19th-Century Western Art History: The Survey
  • Women as Art Historians, Archaeologists, and Curators
  • Women and Art History before 1971
  • 20th-Century Dictionaries of Women Artists
  • Bibliographies of Women in the Arts
  • Reviews of the Emergence of Feminist Studies in Art History in the United States and the United Kingdom
  • Western 1970s–1980s
  • Western 1990s–2000s: Histories of Feminist Art
  • International
  • Interviews and Anthologies of Writings
  • Italian Renaissance and Baroque
  • 18th Century
  • Modern Period
  • Feminist Art, Theory, and Practice
  • Theoretical Approaches
  • Museums of Women’s Art
  • Reviewing Major Collections
  • Curatorial Practices
  • Initiating Exhibitions: Women Artists of the Western Tradition
  • Feminist Exhibitions
  • Specialist Exhibitions
  • Increasing the International Perspectives
  • Feminism and Visual Culture
  • The Hierarchy of the Arts
  • Professions
  • Feminism and Social History of Art
  • Feminism and Semiotics
  • Feminist Art History and Aby Warburg
  • Feminism and Psychoanalysis
  • Selected Perspectives on Period Studies
  • The Magnificent Exception: Artemisia Gentileschi
  • Self-Portraiture
  • Orientalism
  • Feminist Analyses of Masculinity and Art
  • Race, Ethnicity, Black Subjectivity, and Representation
  • Lesbian Subjectivity and Visual Culture
  • Jewish Subjectivity, Art, and History
  • The Victorians
  • Modernity, Landscape, Urban Space, and the Flâneuse
  • Thinking about the Modern
  • The Avant-Garde

Related Articles Expand or collapse the "related articles" section about

About related articles close popup.

Lorem Ipsum Sit Dolor Amet

Vestibulum ante ipsum primis in faucibus orci luctus et ultrices posuere cubilia Curae; Aliquam ligula odio, euismod ut aliquam et, vestibulum nec risus. Nulla viverra, arcu et iaculis consequat, justo diam ornare tellus, semper ultrices tellus nunc eu tellus.

  • Art and Psychoanalysis
  • Art Theory in Europe to 1800
  • Contemporary Art
  • Eighteenth-Century Europe
  • Gender and Art in the Middle Ages
  • Gender and Art in the Renaissance

Other Subject Areas

Forthcoming articles expand or collapse the "forthcoming articles" section.

  • Art of the Catholic Religious Orders in Medieval Europe
  • Color in European Art and Architecture
  • Jusepe de Ribera
  • Find more forthcoming articles...
  • Export Citations
  • Share This Facebook LinkedIn Twitter

Women, Art, and Art History: Gender and Feminist Analyses by Griselda Pollock LAST REVIEWED: 30 January 2014 LAST MODIFIED: 30 January 2014 DOI: 10.1093/obo/9780199920105-0034

Following a worldwide feminist movement in the later 20th century, women became a renewed topic for art and art history, giving rise to gender analysis of both artistic production and art historical discourse. Gender is to be understood as a system of power, named initially patriarchal and also theorized as a phallocentric symbolic order. A renewed and theoretically developed as well as activist feminist consciousness initially mandated the historical recovery of the contribution of women as artists to art’s international histories to counter the effective erasure of the history of women as artists by the modern discipline of art history. This has also led to a rediscovery of the contributions of women as art historians to the discipline itself. Gender analysis raises the repressed question of gender (and sexuality) in relation both to creativity itself and to the writing of art’s necessarily pluralized histories. Gender refers to the asymmetrical hierarchy between those distinguished both sociologically and symbolically on the basis of perceived, but not determining, differences. Although projected as natural difference between given sexes, the active and productive processes of social and ideological differentiation produces as its effects gendered difference that is claimed, ideologically, as “natural.” As an axis of power relations, gender can be shown to shape social existence of men and women and determine artistic representations. Gender is thus also understood as a symbolic dimension shaping hierarchical oppositions in representation in texts, images, buildings, and discourses about art. It is constantly being produced by the work performed by art and writing about art. Feminist analysis critiques these technologies of gender while itself also being one, albeit critically seeking transformation of social and symbolic gender. The analysis of gender ideologies in the writing of art history and in art itself, therefore, extend to art produced by all artists, irrespective of the gendered identity of the artist. Women, having been excluded by the gendering discourses of modern art history, have had to be recovered from an oblivion those discourses created while the idea of women as artist has to be reestablished in the face of a an ideology that places anything feminine in a secondary position. Women are not, however, a homogeneous category defined by gender alone. Women are agonistically differentiated by class, ethnicity, culture, religion, geopolitical location, sexuality, and ability. Gender analysis includes the interplay of several axes of differentiation and their symbolic representations without any a priori assumptions about how each artwork/artist might negotiate and rework dominant discourses of gender and other social inflections. The postcolonial critique of Western hegemony and a search for non-Western-centered models of inclusiveness that respect diversity without creating normative relativism are driving the tendency of the research into gender in and art history toward an as yet unrealized inclusiveness regarding gender and difference in general rather than the creation of separate subcategories on the basis of the gender or other qualifying characteristics of the artist. The objectives of critical art historical practices focusing on gender and related axes of power are to ensure consistent and rigorous research into all artists, irrespective of gender, for which a specific initiative focusing on women as artists in order to correct a skewed and gender-selective archive has been necessary, and to expand the paradigm of art historical research in general to ensure that the social, economic, and symbolic functions of gender, sexual, and other social and psycho-symbolic differences are consistently considered as part of the normal procedures of art historical analysis.

Without a foundational understanding of the social meaning and symbolic operation of gender, both the historical process of artistic creation and the historical representation of that history will not be grasped. Women working on art history (domain and discipline) draw on germane theoretical interventions in historical research while also using sociological studies of institutions to call for a paradigm shift in art history itself. Scott 1986 offers a key argument for gender analysis in the historical disciplines, examining different theoretical paradigms that have been introduced to approach gender as an axis in history. Kelly-Gadol 1977 is a critical reading of the major cultural shifts from late medieval culture in which Troubadour culture allowed women agency in relation to love by means of appropriating feudal relations to the Renaissance in which new concepts of the decorative courtier closed out such opportunities for women. In art history, Nochlin 1973 is the foundational text of a specifically feminist challenge to art history. Nochlin calls for a radical, paradigm shift in art history (discipline). Raising the “woman question” becomes a lever to challenge the exclusion of all social and institutional factors in the study of art’s histories. The text’s title is, however, representative of its own moment in 1971 when women art historians had to confront a discipline that presented art history (domain) almost entirely without women, having established a canon solely composed of great masters. Honoring Gabhart and Broun 1972 ’s neologism “Old Mistresses” (cited under Initiating Exhibitions: Women Artists of the Western Tradition ) to point out how language already disqualifies women from recognition as “masters.” Parker and Pollock 2013 (written in 1978 and originally published 1981) identifies the discursive habits of the discipline of art history as structurally gendered and gendering. The authors, however, also stress the ways that women artists actively negotiated their own differential situations to produce distinctive interventions in their own cultural context and to show how they negotiated the image of woman and of the artist in different contexts. Broude and Garrard 1982 lays out the case for feminist studies across all periods of art to reveal the central role of gender in historical cultures and visual practices while recognizing the distorting effects of an unacknowledged masculinist and heteronormative bias in art historical interpretation. The authors demonstrate the overall shifts in art historical method that result from awareness of gender in culture. De Lauretis 1987 uses a Foucaultian model to understand gender as an effect produced in its representations, self-representations, and feminist deconstructions, challenging a model that, privileging man/woman difference, makes lesbian subjectivities invisible. Battersby 1989 traces gender across philosophical aesthetics to reveal its foundational and continuing gender thinking. Broude and Garrard 1992 tracks the developing range of theories of gender in relation to art historical analysis registering the impact of postmodernist concepts of authorship and subjectivity while balancing such trends with an equal acknowledgement of the agency of women in contesting historically variable organizations and representations of gender relations.

Battersby, Christine. Gender and Genius: Towards a Feminist Aesthetics . London: Women’s Press, 1989.

An extended, philosophically based analysis of the gendering of the concept of genius from the ancients of the West to Simone de Beauvoir, revealing the identification of genius with the masculine body and conventionalized masculine attributes defined in opposition to the equally constructed and rhetorical figure of the feminine. Such an analysis is necessary in order to create the ground for any reconsideration of the contribution of women to art.

Broude, Norma, and Mary Garrard. “Introduction: Feminism and Art History.” In Feminism and Art History: Questioning the Litany . Edited by Norma Broude and Mary Garrad 1–18. New York: Harper & Row, 1982.

Introducing their first major collection of substantive works of feminist art historical scholarship, Broude and Garrard position feminism’s impact on art history as a major reconceptualization of previous history and art historiography as patriarchal, necessitating radical revisions to the distortions created by sexual bias in the creation and interpretation of art and demanding a new definition of the cultural and social uses of art.

Broude, Norma, and Mary Garrard. “Introduction: The Expanding Discourse.” In The Expanding Discourse: Feminism and Art History . Edited by Norma Broude and Mary Garrad, 1–25. New York: Harper Collins, 1992.

Representing the theoretical and methodological diversity of feminist studies in art history from its second decade, Broude and Garrard both identify the effects of “postmodernist” theories of authorship, the gaze and the social construction of gender in art history, while contesting the tendency to polarize feminist scholarship between modern and postmodern, essentialist and constructivist, traditionalist and theoretical. They advocate incremental change in the discipline and argue for a continuing acknowledgement of the importance of studies of women’s authorship in art.

de Lauretis, Teresa. “The Technology of Gender.” In Technologies of Gender: Essays on Theory, Film, and Fiction . By Teresa de Lauretis, 1–30. London: Macmillan, 1987.

Challenging predominantly masculine narratives of gender that effectively install the heterosexual contract, which may be reproduced in feminist texts, because of the fact that gender is always being produced in the play between representation and self-representation, de Lauretis sketches out methods for countering the exclusion of nonheteronormative subjectivities by suggesting that otherness and difference is always already present in the “spaces off” of dominant discourses.

Kelly-Gadol, Joan. “Did Women Have a Renaissance?” In Becoming Visible: Women in European History . Edited by Renate Bridenthal and Claudia Koonz, 19–50. Boston: Houghton Mifflin, 1977.

Kelly-Gadol stresses that the temporalities of gender relations may not only not coincide with the progressive model of historical periodization—the Renaissance as progress—but may be in conflict. Histories attentive to gender do not necessarily coincide with those that are gender-blind. Reprinted in Women, History and Theory: The Essays of Joan Kelly (Chicago: University of Chicago Press, 1984), pp. 19–50.

Nochlin, Linda. “Why Have There Been No Great Women Artists?” In Art and Sexual Politics: Women’s Liberation, Women Artists, and Art History . Edited by Thomas B. Hess and Elizabeth C. Baker 44. New York: Collier, 1973.

First published in ARTnews (January 1971), pp. 22–39, 67–71. Nochlin discouraged her colleagues from answering her question by seeking candidates for “great woman artist.” She questioned the rhetorical figure of the autonomous genius and insisted upon the role of discriminatory institutions and practices that had limited women’s, and others’, potential and access to training and recognition. Her perspective suggested that reduced discrimination would create a level playing field for women.

Parker, Rozsika, and Griselda Pollock. Old Mistresses: Women, Art and Ideology . 3d ed. London: I. B. Tauris, 2013.

Defining art history as an ideologically impregnated discourse, the authors track stereotypes of femininity (mindless, decorative, derivative, dextrous, weak) negatively invoked to sustain an unacknowledged masculinization of art and the artist. They critique the gendered hierarchy of art versus craft and assess the strategic interventions into the representation of gender difference, body, and identity of artists from the Middle Ages to the late 20th century.

Scott, Joan W. “Gender: A Useful Category for Historical Analysis.” American Historical Review 91.5 (1986): 1053–1075.

DOI: 10.2307/1864376

Scott reviews working definitions of both the social construction of gender and the symbolic function of gender in representing and enacting hierarchical difference. Gender is presented not only as a historically fabricated social relation but also as an effective element in representational systems that also exceed the relations of masculine and feminine. This is a critical text of the potential for gender as a category for historical research. Available online for purchase or by subscription.

back to top

Users without a subscription are not able to see the full content on this page. Please subscribe or login .

Oxford Bibliographies Online is available by subscription and perpetual access to institutions. For more information or to contact an Oxford Sales Representative click here .

  • About Art History Âť
  • Meet the Editorial Board Âť
  • Activist and Socially Engaged Art
  • Adornment, Dress, and African Arts of the Body
  • Alessandro Algardi
  • Ancient Egyptian Art
  • Ancient Pueblo (Anasazi) Art
  • Angkor and Environs
  • Art and Archaeology of the Bronze Age in China
  • Art and Architecture in the Medieval Kingdom of Hungary
  • Art and Propaganda
  • Art of Medieval Iberia
  • Art of the Crusader Period in the Levant
  • Art of the Dogon
  • Art of the Mamluks
  • Art of the Plains Peoples
  • Art Restitution
  • Artemisia Gentileschi
  • Arts of Senegambia
  • Arts of the Pacific Islands
  • Assyrian Art and Architecture
  • Australian Aboriginal Art
  • Aztec Empire, Art of the
  • Babylonian Art and Architecture
  • Bamana Arts and Mande Traditions
  • Barbizon Painting
  • Bartolomeo Ammannati
  • Bernini, Gian Lorenzo
  • Bohemia and Moravia, Renaissance and Rudolphine Art of
  • Borromini, Francesco
  • Brazilian Art and Architecture, Post-independence
  • Burkina Art and Performance
  • Byzantine Art and Architecture
  • Caravaggio, Michelangelo Merisi da
  • Carracci, Annibale
  • Ceremonial Entries in Early Modern Europe
  • Chaco Canyon and Other Early Art in the North American Sou...
  • Chicana/o Art
  • ChimĂş Art and Architecture
  • Colonial Art of New Granada (Colombia)
  • Conceptual Art and Conceptualism
  • Courbet, Gustave
  • Czech Modern and Contemporary Art
  • Daumier, HonorĂŠ
  • David, Jacques-Louis
  • Delacroix, Eugène
  • Design, Garden and Landscape
  • Destruction in Art
  • Destruction in Art Symposium (DIAS)
  • DĂźrer, Albrecht
  • Early Christian Art
  • Early Medieval Architecture in Western Europe
  • Early Modern European Engravings and Etchings, 1400–1700
  • Ephemeral Art and Performance in Africa
  • Ethiopia, Art History of
  • European Art, Historiography of
  • European Medieval Art, Otherness in
  • Expressionism
  • Eyck, Jan van
  • Feminism and 19th-century Art History
  • Festivals in West Africa
  • Francisco de ZurbarĂĄn
  • French Impressionism
  • Gender and Art in the 17th Century
  • Giotto di Bondone
  • Gothic Architecture
  • Gothic Art in Italy
  • Goya y Lucientes, Francisco JosĂŠ
  • Great Zimbabwe and its Legacy
  • Greek Art and Architecture
  • Greenberg, Clement
  • GĂŠricault, ThĂŠodore
  • Iconography in the Western World
  • Installation Art
  • Islamic Art and Architecture in North Africa and the Iberi...
  • Japanese Architecture
  • Japanese Buddhist Painting
  • Japanese Buddhist Sculpture
  • Japanese Ceramics
  • Japanese Literati Painting and Calligraphy
  • Jewish Art, Ancient
  • Jewish Art, Medieval to Early Modern
  • Jewish Art, Modern and Contemporary
  • Jones, Inigo
  • Josefa de Óbidos
  • Kahlo, Frida
  • Katsushika Hokusai
  • Lastman, Pieter
  • Leonardo da Vinci
  • Luca della Robbia (or the Della Robbia Family)
  • Luisa RoldĂĄn
  • Markets and Auctions, Art
  • Marxism and Art
  • Medieval Art and Liturgy (recent approaches)
  • Medieval Art and the Cult of Saints
  • Medieval Art in Scandinavia, 400-800
  • Medieval Textiles
  • Meiji Painting
  • Merovingian Period Art
  • Modern Sculpture
  • Monet, Claude
  • Māori Art and Architecture
  • Museums in Australia
  • Museums of Art in the West
  • Native North American Art, Pre-Contact
  • Nazi Looting of Art
  • New Media Art
  • New Spain, Art and Architecture
  • Pacific Art, Contemporary
  • Palladio, Andrea
  • Parthenon, The
  • Paul Gauguin
  • Performance Art
  • Perspective from the Renaissance to Post-Modernism, Histor...
  • Peter Paul Rubens
  • Philip II and El Escorial
  • Photography, History of
  • Pollock, Jackson
  • Polychrome Sculpture in Early Modern Spain
  • Postmodern Architecture
  • Pre-Hispanic Art of Columbia
  • Psychoanalysis, Art and
  • Qing Dynasty Painting
  • Rembrandt van Rijn
  • Renaissance and Renascences
  • Renaissance Art and Architecture in Spain
  • Rimpa School
  • Rivera, Diego
  • Rodin, Auguste
  • Romanticism
  • Science and Conteporary Art
  • Sculpture: Method, Practice, Theory
  • South Asia and Allied Textile Traditions, Wall Painting of
  • South Asia, Modern and Contemporary Art of
  • South Asia, Photography in
  • South Asian Architecture and Sculpture, 13th to 18th Centu...
  • South Asian Art, Historiography of
  • The Art of Medieval Sicily and Southern Italy through the ...
  • The Art of Southern Italy and Sicily under Angevin and Cat...
  • Theory in Europe to 1800, Art
  • Timurid Art and Architecture
  • Turner, Joseph Mallord William
  • van Gogh, Vincent
  • Warburg, Aby
  • Warhol, Andy
  • Wari (Huari) Art and Architecture
  • Wittelsbach Patronage from the late Middle Ages to the Thi...
  • Women, Art, and Art History: Gender and Feminist Analyses
  • Yuan Dynasty Art
  • Privacy Policy
  • Cookie Policy
  • Legal Notice
  • Accessibility

Powered by:

  • [185.80.150.64]
  • 185.80.150.64

Banner

JSTOR Subjects and Collections

  • Art & Art History
  • Ecology & Botany
  • Language & Literature
  • Mathematics & Statistics
  • Political Science
  • Sustainability
  • Shared Collections
  • JSTOR Primary Source Collections

JSTOR Art & Art History

Subject guide, jstor and artstor.

JSTOR contains both scholarly journal and ebook collections on art and art history topics, as well as the Artstor image library. Artstor features millions of high-quality images and media from some of the world’s top photo archives, museums, libraries, scholars, and artists, including rare materials not available anywhere else. For more information on Artstor, visit our guide on Artstor .

Journals and ebooks in Art & Art History

  • Scope : JSTOR includes more than 125 journal titles and hundreds of ebooks within the discipline of art & art history. 
  • Content : The content includes titles from many of the leading societies (College Art Association, Society of Architectural Historians, Royal Society of the Arts, among others) as well as publications from museums and art library associations (Metropolitan Museum of  Art, MoMA, the British Museum, the Rijksmuseum). 
  • Sources : At this time, the majority of the content is from the United States, with international titles coming from the UK, Germany, and the Netherlands. 
  • Strengths : The collection is strongest in the sub-disciplines of fine arts, Western art, Asian art, classical and ancient art, and Medieval and Renaissance art. 
  • Art Highlights : A special highlight of the art content on JSTOR includes a group of rare American art periodicals from the early 20th century that includes the poems, designs, and art work from contemporaries such as Alfred Stieglitz, Katharine Rhoades, Francis Picabia, and William H. Bradley. 
  • Ebook Highlights: A highlight of the ebook collection is the Royal Irish Academy’s five-volume set, Art and Architecture of Ireland. Featuring more than 3,000 images, these ebooks explore Ireland's artistic and architectural heritage from the early Middle Ages to the end of the 20th century.

Primary Source Collections with Art & Art History Content

JSTOR offers millions of primary sources across four collections, supporting research and teaching in the humanities, social sciences, and sciences.

  • African culture : JSTOR's Aluka collections ( Struggles for Freedom - Southern Africa , World Heritage Sites - Africa ) contain information and images about African art and material culture. 
  • Plant specimens and research :  JSTOR Global Plants  includes botanical paintings, prints, photographs, and drawings from herbaria and museums around the world.
  • British pamphlets :  19th Century British Pamphlets contains a variety of relevant materials including exhibition listings, essays on conservation, tracts on aesthetics, museum guides, and auction catalogs. 

JSTOR Daily: Arts and Culture Feed

art history research paper topics 20th century

Read our online magazine that connects news and current affairs with related scholarship on JSTOR. It's a great source of ideas for paper topics and classroom discussions .

  • << Previous: Subjects
  • Next: Ecology & Botany >>
  • Last Updated: Aug 2, 2024 8:57 AM
  • URL: https://guides.jstor.org/subjects-collections

JSTOR is part of ITHAKA , a not-for-profit organization helping the academic community use digital technologies to preserve the scholarly record and to advance research and teaching in sustainable ways.

Š2000-2024 ITHAKA. All Rights Reserved. JSTORŽ, the JSTOR logo, JPASSŽ, ArtstorŽ and ITHAKAŽ are registered trademarks of ITHAKA.

JSTOR.org Terms and Conditions   Privacy Policy Cookie Policy Cookie settings Accessibility

History Thesis Topics: List of 69 Outstanding Ideas

art history research paper topics 20th century

Unless you plan to go for a Ph.D. in history, a thesis will be the most significant academic writing of your life. It shows your in-depth knowledge of a subject, your ability to think logically, creatively, and originally. Besides, it’s a great way to demonstrate how good your writing is.

But finding an appropriate title for your thesis is a challenging task. You may feel unsure about any idea until you see the rest of them. So, what can help you?

A history thesis topics list, of course. In this article, you’ll consider a wide variety of ideas about historical events and figures. There are some tips on picking the right one for you. With a little explanation of the basics, you’ll differentiate the Bachelor’s thesis from the Master’s one in a second.

  • ☝️ How to Choose?
  • ⭐ Top-12 Thesis Ideas
  • 🚀 American History
  • ⚔️ European History
  • 🎨 Art History
  • 📚 MA Thesis Topics
  • 🦉 MPhil Thesis Ideas
  • 👨‍🏫 Thesis vs. Dissertation

☝ How to Choose a History Thesis Topic?

Before picking a topic about history, you have to understand what you’re looking for. Take into account that you’re going to spend plenty of time writing your thesis. So, you need to find an idea that engages you and is worthy of your time. Don’t go for a random history topic that you do not feel passionate about.

Searching for an idea, follow the tips below:

  • Find a topic that interests you . You’ll most probably write your thesis for a whole semester or even longer. That’s why you should determine something that doesn’t bore easily. At least those countless hours in the library will be spent with pleasure. The more the idea challenges and intrigues you, the less you’ll procrastinate and suffer from writing. No one can tell you what to write about. Your advisor can help you specify the topic, but it is up to you what to write about.
  • Look for a topic that creates a trajectory for further research . You may not pursue it later, but having an opportunity to do so is a significant advantage. If you decide to pursue a further degree, you will already be familiar with the topic well. Take a look at available works in a free essays database to get a clearer picture of what can be further explored.
  • Find a professor who will become your thesis advisor . Bring some thesis ideas up and see what your instructor suggests. It’s a good thing to have several research topics in mind—the instructor can help you determine the best one.
  • Think beyond the graduation date . Whether you are going to start a career or continue your studies, your thesis should help you in achieving your goals. What may your employer look for in your paper? What do you need to be successful in your job or further research? It’s good to approach the issue with some level of practicality. See if you can apply the skills and information you’ve acquired to your professional life.
  • Strive for originality but stay within your studies context . Try to make your title unique to grasp attention and intrigue from the get-go. At the same time, don’t fall outside the scope of your field. Before picking a topic, do some research to understand the field deeper. This way, you’ll see what exactly you would like to address.
  • Make sure your title fits the requirements . Open your university guidelines for the thesis work and find this out before anything else. Ask your thesis advisor as well to give you honest feedback.

You don't have to choose a thesis topic that reflects the latest craze in your field.

⭐ Top-12 History Thesis Ideas

  • Civil War — the role of women.
  • The Watergate Scandal.
  • Contemporary art history.
  • The Napoleonic Wars.
  • Causes of World War 2.
  • Impact of the Black Plague.
  • The Cuban Missile Crisis.
  • Japanese-American conflict.
  • The Vietnam anti-war protests.
  • Origins of the Great Famine in Ireland.
  • The French Revolution.
  • The rule of Elizabeth I.

📝 History Thesis Topics for Bachelor’s Degree

Usually, American Universities don’t require students to write a Senior Thesis. However, you still have an option to choose one. You can write a thesis as a part of your program completion. It will take a lot of time, energy, and effort. But, in the end, you will be able to produce a prime piece of academic writing.

Strive to write anywhere from 60 to 100 pages. You will also dedicate a lot of time writing and polishing it afterward. Make sure to leave enough time for that too.

What’s the first step?

Look for a thesis advisor you know you will enjoy working with. Consider all the professors you’ve interacted with at your university and pick several. Approach them and see if they are accepting new students for thesis supervision.

Make sure to choose a history thesis paper topic that your advisor knows a lot about. At some point, you will become very knowledgeable about the history thesis topic you chose. It will be crucial to have someone who can direct you.

There are several reasons why you should consider writing a thesis for a Bachelor’s Degree in history:

  • It provides you with essential experience in writing, researching, and brainstorming ideas. It can later help you in your academic or professional life.
  • You can deeply understand a subject that interests you.
  • You can improve your reading skills.
  • If you have to use foreign sources, you can also increase your foreign language skills.

Having a strong position on the history thesis topic is great.

Are you still wondering what historical thesis ideas are appropriate? Then, this list is perfect for you.

🚀 American History Thesis Topics

  • African American history in the United States : disfranchisement and segregation in 1890-1900
  • Early American History and the lost colony of Roanoke
  • The construction of race in American culture and history. It’s not a secret that race is a social construct. In American culture and history, it plays a critical role. In the thesis, you will have a chance to research the mechanisms through which the race was constructed. Movies, literary representations, articles, what else? It’s up to you to find out what can be relevant.
  • World War 2 through personal letters and diaries . This thesis can be personal and will not leave people indifferent. Examination of diaries, notes, and personal accounts can be fascinating. You won’t be bored doing historical research. Maybe you even have some in your own family? Worth checking it out.
  • Guilt over Slavery in the United States: a historical examination
  • Gender equality in American education . A comparative study of Germany, Russia, The United States
  • New York City and its historical geography. NYC is one of the captivating American cities. Writing a thesis about its historical geography is not an easy task. Gladly, you have tons of information available to you.

You can examine various documents for your history thesis topic.

  • Rocket Science as one of the most significant innovations of the 20th century
  • Examining the Role of Privilege within the Ivy League Universities
  • Role of American Public Health in a Post-9/11 World

⚔ European History Thesis Topics

  • Formation and development of the European Union during the 20th century
  • Feminist perspective on the representation of women in Roman Art
  • Religion and Nation in Europe in the 19th century
  • Construction of National Identity in Post-Soviet Latvia. What did contribute to developing a national identity of post-soviet Latvia? First of all, its independence and belonging to the European Union. In this thesis, talk about colonization and colonial identity. Consider the policies Latvian government implemented to build a Latvian character. What is it? What are the essential characteristics of it?
  • Composition and religious hierarchy in The Last Supper by Leonardo Da Vinci
  • Representation of Jews in Late Medieval Period in Europe
  • Problems of political leadership in Athens of 404-355 BCE
  • The French Renaissance Court and its structural hierarchy. This topic is interesting yet complex. Its complexity comes not from the name but the nature of the French Renaissance Court. You need to have a clear idea of how the royal court is built and is operating. Find relevant historians of that time, and, hopefully, you can speak some French.
  • Immigrational Politics of the United Kingdom. The problem of multiculturism at the beginning of 1960-1980.
  • Orientalism or the Middle East through the prism of Western scholars in the XIX century. In this thesis, start by exploring the notion of Orientalism. Edward Said will be a good point of departure and one of the most fundamental works to cite and read. You can agree with his argument or disagree with it. Nevertheless, find the relevant evidence for your point of view.

🎨 Art History Thesis Topics

  • Medicine in Ancient Rome with a focus on surgeries through paintings. This thesis topic is rich. Numerous Ancient Roman paintings depict surgeries and medical treatments. Find the most interesting ones and talk about innovations in medicine. What was the point of recording medical procedures in art? Truly a topic that can captivate anyone.
  • Vincent Van Gogh: A phycological analysis of the artist’s last years . In this thesis, examine his artworks together with the personal letters. Look at the words he used, as well as the images he painted. You need it to comprehend what was happening in Vincent’s life in his last years. Some art therapists claim that the artist had bipolar disorder. Examine those views. However, be careful not to give any medical diagnosis yourself.

Analyze how Vincent Van Gogh's life and mental health issues affected his art.

  • Plato on Punishment and Vice: the notion of punishment in The Republic. You cannot get a degree without reading the most fundamental text of the Western Academy, The Republic . In this thesis, you should simply focus on the ideas of punishment and vice. Plato wrote a lot regarding the morals and the laws. Try to discern what exactly he meant. Extract his views regarding capital punishment and punitive justice.
  • Modern Art in Europe, with a specific focus on Italy
  • Trade in Medieval Europe with a focus on Africa through art
  • The erotism of art of Ancient Rome
  • Synthesis of sculpture and paintings in Spanish art of the 17th century
  • Neoclassicism in French art of the 1900s-1910s
  • Surrealism in Art as the quintessence between realism and hyper-realism

📋 History Thesis Topics for Master’s Degree

In the United States, to enter a graduate degree in history, a bachelor’s degree is required. Most of the time, students will have to submit several recommendation letters. Plus, they need GRE scores and writing samples. Add to this several essays explaining the purpose of going to university again, and there you have it.

Bachelor’s thesis can serve as your writing sample.

It is common to have several completion requirements. They can include basic courses, language tests, and a master’s thesis at the end of the program. However, it depends on the department and the university.

Keep in mind that there are several credits that students should obtain to get a degree. It differs from university to university as well. In most of the programs throughout the United States, they are required to complete 30-32 credits to get an M.A. degree. This number usually corresponds to 8-9 classes.

If you are pursuing an M.A., you’re in luck. There is an excellent chance that you will be able to choose if you would like to write a thesis or not. If you are pursuing an M.Phil., then you will have to write your thesis because it’s a research degree.

No matter if you are pursuing an M.A. or an M.Phil., this historical thesis ideas can help you find a title:

📚 MA Thesis Topics in History

  • Apotheosis of the Philippine Historical Political Tradition
  • Kerala History: Syrian Christians in the region in the 18th century
  • History of Modern India with a focus on women’s rights
  • The history of theater in the American South and the main characteristics of the Southern Drama. This thesis includes a lot of aspects starting from playwriting in Charleston to drama in New Orleans. Then there are War Drama, Black Drama, etc. Try to find a good balance to fit all of the main characteristics of the Southern Drama and theater.
  • New Deal and its impacts on events leading to the Great Depression
  • Mistakes of the Soviet side in WW2. WWII was the deadliest military conflict of the 20th century. In this thesis, talk about the biggest mistakes the Red Army made during the war. Some of those can include signing to the Non-Aggression Pact with Hitler. Plus, there were anti-tank dogs and the Molovot-Ribbentrop Pact.

The initial period of World War II for the USSR was a real catastrophe for the Red Army's tanks.

  • Military strategies that allowed Napoleon to win crucial battles
  • Mussolini & Hitler : connection along with its consequences for Italy
  • Queen Victoria’s politics and the way it has changed British history
  • The Development of Strategic Bombing Doctrine Between the World Wars
  • Historical Creation of a Black Elite in the United States
  • Through Imperial Eyes: Race and British Reactions to the American Slavery Question
  • Gertrude Bell’s Influence in the Formation of Iraq. Gertrude Bell is a crucial figure in Islamic studies. She contributed a lot to the formation of Iraq. In this thesis, explore her unique contribution and approach to building a modern state of the country. She was highly trusted by British politicians and by Arab leaders.
  • Baptist church history as a way to escape slavery

🦉 MPhil Thesis Topics in History

  • Investigating the impact of WWI on trade blocks. A case study of the European Union
  • Women in WWII: sexual objectification of women through magazines and advertisement. Women played an integral part in WWII. In this thesis, explore the role of sexual imagery in the advertising industry during the war.
  • Sudan-American relationships in 1989-2000: US Foreign Policy and Genocide in Sudan
  • Criticism of the war on drugs during the Ronald Reagan administration
  • The political evolution of the Southern States during the Reconstruction Era
  • Everest Expeditions in British Popular Culture, 1920-1960. Explore how Everest Expeditions were depicted in British movies. Analyze the subject via comics, journals, and visual art in the first part of the 20th century.
  • Impact of Otto von Bismarck on German Liberalism

Otto von Bismarck was a prime minister of Prussia and founder of the German Empire.

  • Discrimination of German immigrants in the USA during WW2
  • The Fourth International and the Spanish Civil War
  • Political and economic aspects of the crisis in Venetian Diplomacy in the 1500s
  • The connection between institutionalized racism and police violence in the United States. There are several dimensions to racism. In this thesis, look for a connection between structural racism and police violence in the US. Compare the numbers, look at the stories. See if this data exposes any hidden bias.
  • An image of the Medieval Period in Post Modern Art
  • A comparative analysis of the Four Quran English Translation. In this thesis, discuss why and how the Quran can be translated. Also, you should look at the four translations. Try to determine which one is the closest. To do that, you need to have an advanced level of Arabic.
  • The psychological effect of war on American soldiers in Vietnam

👨‍🏫 Differences between a Thesis and Dissertation

Understanding the difference between a thesis and a dissertation is essential. Would you like to obtain a master’s and a doctoral degree? Then read attentively. In the United States, both thesis and dissertation are vital for this purpose.

The prominent differences that you have to realize are the following:

  • A dissertation is required to graduate with a doctoral degree. A thesis is a culmination of a master’s program.
  • A dissertation is written to add a new piece of knowledge to the field. A thesis is to show that you have enough knowledge about the field.
  • A dissertation usually takes several semesters, sometimes even years, to complete. A thesis does not require this amount of time. It can be finished within months.
  • A dissertation can be seen as an academic book. A master’s thesis is a long research paper.

A dissertation has to be defended, while the master's thesis doesn't require defense in most universities.

Let’s see the main characteristics of a bachelor’s thesis, a master’s thesis, an MPhil’s thesis, and a dissertation:

  • A Bachelor’s Thesis (honors thesis). It’s a research-based paper that allows undergraduate students to put their knowledge into practice. The paper is usually 40-60 pages long. It includes an introduction, main body, conclusion, and bibliography.
  • A Master’s Thesis. It’s a piece of original scholarly work. A mater’s thesis is written under the close supervision of an academic advisor. It attempts to bring some fresh look or a new perspective to a field of study. The length of a master’s thesis can vary. Usually, it doesn’t go beyond 100 pages.
  • An MPhil’s Thesis (Master of Philosophy). It’s a specific type of thesis. As it was stated earlier, most American Universities don’t grant this degree. A few schools give it under specific circumstances. Doctoral students should accomplish all the course work and pass their exams. Then, this degree can be granted to them. A more colloquial way to call this degree is “all but dissertation.” In other cases, this degree is granted to students who are doing their postgraduate research.
  • A Dissertation. It’s a major piece of academic writing. It’s independent, shows critical and thinking ability. A dissertation is meant to illustrate academic knowledge, originality of work, and research skills. The length usually stays within 200-300 pages.

Each thesis and dissertation has its distinct structure.

Any thesis or dissertation is a monumental work. Choose a topic that you are passionate about. Make sure it’s researchable and clear, but at the same time memorable. Spend time writing, proofreading, editing, and talking to your advisor about your ideas and academic goals.

Remember that it is okay to get frustrated and tired at times. If it happens to you, stop working for a bit and relax. Good luck and congratulations on your soon to be graduation! We hope this article was helpful. Share it with those who may need a history thesis topic or a piece of advice.

🔗 References

  • MPhil in History: University of Oxford
  • How to Pick a Masters Thesis Topic: Peter Campbell for Medium
  • How Do I Choose A Thesis Topic: Grad School Hub
  • Writing a Senior Thesis: Undergraduate Program, Department of History, Brandeis University
  • The Bachelor’s Thesis, Bachelor EE: University of Twente
  • Guidelines for the Preparation of Your Master’s Thesis: the Office of Graduate Studies and Research: University of Nebraska at Kearney
  • Guidelines for Writing a Master’s Thesis for MA Degree: Jeremy Bailey, Susan Scarrow, University of Houston
  • What is a dissertation? How it is different from an essay: The Royal Literary Fund
  • What is the Difference Between a Thesis and a Dissertation: The Best Master’s Degrees
  • Share via Facebook
  • Share via X
  • Share via LinkedIn
  • Share via email

By clicking "Post Comment" you agree to IvyPanda’s Privacy Policy and Terms and Conditions . Your posts, along with your name, can be seen by all users.

Best Research Paper Topic on History for Students

image

Table of contents

  • 1 What is a History Research Paper?
  • 2 Unique History Research Topics Tips
  • 3 Ancient History Research Paper Topics
  • 4 Middle Ages History Research Paper Topics
  • 5 World History Research Paper Topics
  • 6 WWI History Research Paper Topics
  • 7 WWII History Research Paper Topics
  • 8 20th Century History Research Paper Topics
  • 9 Modern History Research Paper Topics
  • 10 French Revolution Topics
  • 11 European History Research Paper Topics
  • 12 US History Research Paper Topics
  • 13 Art History Research Paper Topics
  • 14 Conclusion

One of the biggest challenges is just how many research topics for students there are. There are European history research paper topics, art history research paper topics, and world history research paper topics among many more. Knowing where to begin can be the biggest hurdle to overcome. In this guide, PapersOwl will give you a list of history topics to get you started.

What is a History Research Paper?

A history research paper is an analysis of a historical time or event. There is usually a thesis statement or argument that the paper analyses and proves. The body of a research paper will lay out evidence to argue the thesis statement. By showing the statement to be possible, the paper might draw on new possibilities and explore new ideas.

When someone reads the paper, they will meet the thesis within the first couple of paragraphs. As they read more, they contemplate what they are being shown. They are presented with evidence to weigh, and they might find themselves wanting to know more about the topic. No matter the subject matter, history research papers present the writer’s own ideas and back them up with evidence such as others’ ideas.

A research paper is different from an essay. Essays are usually personal interpretations of a subject, while research papers build on ideas and evidence by experts. Though you can buy history papers , here are some unique ideas to get you started on a topic you might be interested in.

Unique History Research Topics Tips

Choosing good history topics to research is a challenge for college students. Many students spend too much time worrying about which topic to choose  that they don’t even consider that they also need to learn how to write historical papers .

The best history research paper topics are ones that have strong arguments for discussion. When searching for history research paper topics, you should consider the following:

  • Is your topic relevant, and is there a clear statement?
  • Is there enough prior literature on the topic?
  • Can you find out enough facts with supporting sources and evidence?
  • Are there enough things to consider for the thesis argument and the number of words required?

The majority of research papers require a particular style. This might be comparative, analytical, argumentative, or reflective. You might also be guided to a certain style:

  • A cause and effect paper – to explain and analyze a historical event and its consequences.
  • A persuasive essay – to persuade the reader to a certain way of thinking about a historical event.
  • A paper to compare and contrast – two historical figures/eras/events, etc.

Now we have some background information, let’s explore our list of history topics. For some of them, we have expanded the topic to give you more information.

Ancient History Research Paper Topics

Ancient history is often one of college students’ favorite history research paper topics.

Here are some interesting history research paper topics before 1500.

  • The view of immortality and death in Ancient Egypt – Ancient Egyptians believed that immortality and death were seen as an interruption in life and not the end of it
  • The History of Palestine – Palestine has an interesting history and is defined as an area between the Jordan River and the Mediterranean Sea
  • Prophets and Religious Leaders – Religious leaders and prophets have shaped how we view the spiritual world
  • Did the Trojan Horse exist? – a horse that’s crossed through history over 3000 years, but was it real?
  • Traditions and Culture of Sumerians – Sumerian history is an interesting topic and they had an intricate relationship with God
  • How the Iron Age changed the world – with iron farming tools like sickles, farmers could grow new crops and free up their time
  • Prehistoric Britain and the Role of Women
  • A study of Empires and Power – there are so many empires to choose from, including the British Empire and the Mongol Empire
  • Ancient Egyptian symbolism – Ancient Egypt was full of symbols like the Eye of Horus
  • The great wall of China – was it built to prevent internal or external threats?

Middle Ages History Research Paper Topics

When considering history topics to write about, the Middle Ages is always popular. Here are some good research topics for the Middle Ages:

  • The Middle Ages and Chivalry
  • Medieval Europe – the cause and effect of urbanization
  • War in the Middle Ages – the changes brought about by gunpowder
  • The powerful role of the House of Medici in the Middle Ages – the House of Medici was a political dynasty and Italian banking family
  • Were the Crusades a just holy war or a cruel pilgrimage? – The Crusades were religious wars during Medieval times. They were initiated and supported by the Latin Church
  • The changes in armor and weapons during the Middle Ages
  • Scientific Progress during the Dark Ages – universities began in the Dark Ages, and so lots of progress was made in the sciences
  • Middle Age Witch Trials – prosecuting the powerless
  • Evolving Asia in the Middle Ages
  • Religion’s role in daily Middle Age life

more_shortcode

World History Research Paper Topics

When it comes to world history topics, you have a huge scope, and narrowing them down can be hard. Here are some interesting history topics from around the world:

  • The Battle of the Seas – Spain and Britain
  • Aftershocks of the Cold War
  • Medieval Europe and social relationships
  • Colonizing South America – this began in 1494 with Christopher Columbus
  • The impact of Apartheid – Apartheid negatively affected children in South Africa, but it was especially devastating for black children
  • Ancient Roman bridal ceremonies
  • Ancient civilizations and weapon use
  • What led to the Thirty Years’ War?
  • Crusades and Religion
  • The Mexican-American War – almost two years of fighting, this was a defining moment for US and Mexican relations

WWI History Research Paper Topics

  • Archduke Franz Ferdinand’s assassination and the triggering of WWI – Ferdinand was assassinated in Sarajevo on 28th June 1914, which is considered to be the most immediate cause of the Great War
  • The first battle of Marne and its role in preventing Germany’s advances
  • The use of poison gas in the battle of Ypres and its consequences
  • The Treaty of Versailles – signed in 1919, was the formal end to WWI
  • WWI’s human cost – 9 million soldiers and 12 million civilians died during the war
  • WWI’s air and sea battles – a comparison
  • WWI alliances
  • America’s involvement in World War I
  • World War I and the Russian Revolution
  • The Gallipoli Campaign in WWI

WWII History Research Paper Topics

  • A study of the impact of the diary of Anne Frank
  • The invasion of Poland and the start of WWII
  • Holocaust victims – some six million Jews plus millions of others targeted for their political beliefs, religion, ethnicity, or sexual orientation
  • Africa and WWII
  • The neutrality of the US in World War II – the Neutrality Acts of the 1930s
  • The holocaust and the church
  • Hitler’s perception in Germany during WWII
  • WWII and African Americans
  • WWII and Japanese-American Internment
  • WWII and diplomacy

20th Century History Research Paper Topics

Of course, both WWI and WWII were in the 20th century, but there is so much more to this century than the two huge wars. Here are some history research paper topics from the 1900s to 2000.

  • Northern Irish troubles in the 20th century – typically dated from the end of the 60s to the Good Friday Agreement in 1998, but there have been episodes of sporadic violence after
  • The Cuban missile crisis (also known as the October Crisis of 1962 or the Caribbean Crisis) – just over one month of confrontation been the Soviet Union and the United States
  • The Chernobyl disaster
  • The aftermath of WWII
  • The Nuremberg Trials
  • The formation of the European Union
  • The controversies and legacy of François Mitterrand
  • El Salvador and civil war consequences
  • Student revolts of 1968 – student demonstrations in Belgrade, Yugoslavia – the first mass protests since WWII
  • The invention of the Internet and the PC

Modern History Research Paper Topics

Modern history also encompasses some interesting research topics. These include:

  • American History of the 21st Century
  • The atomic bombings of Nagasaki and Hiroshima – two nuclear weapons were detonated by the US in August 1945, killing as many as 226,000, with most being civilians
  • Europeans Vs Native Americans
  • America’s social movements
  • Industrialists and inventors of the modern world
  • 21st-century US policies and immigration
  • Social movements and the effects of industrialization in America
  • The cost of industrialization in the U.S.
  • The European Union – currently 27 member states and 447 million inhabitants, the beginnings of the EU data to post-WWII
  • Socio-economic developments and gender inequality

French Revolution Topics

If the French Revolution interests you, here is a list of research topics.

  • Causes of the French Revolution – there were many causes, which included social inequality, tax burdens, and a financial crisis
  • The French Revolution and absolutism
  • The effects of the French Revolution on modern France
  • The role of the French Revolution in world history – the French Revolution shaped modern nations showing how the inherent will of the people can prevail
  • Societal transformation after the French Revolution
  • The influence of Robespierre in the French Revolution
  • The French Revolution and music – the French Revolution had a huge influence on music and French operas
  • Olympe de Gouges and the French Revolution
  • A Tale of Two Cities and the French Revolution – the French Revolution is a key event in Charles Dickens’s novel
  • The French Revolution and Napoleon Bonaparte’s betrayal

Need help with research paper writing? Get your paper written by a professional writer Get Help Reviews.io 4.9/5

European History Research Paper Topics

There are many argumentative research paper topics for European History. Here are some examples:

  • Britain’s Kings and Queens – the British monarchy began following raids by the Vikings, and Alfred the Great assumed the title of “King of the English”
  • History of the European Economy
  • The Seven Years’ War
  • 18th-century European Politics
  • The rise of fascism
  • Francisco Franco and the far right in Spain
  • Fascist propaganda in Italy, Germany, and Spain in the 20th century
  • The merge of science and art in Europe in the 17th and 18th centuries
  • The rise of Stalin – Stalin was a student radical and became an influential member and ultimate leader of the Bolshevik faction of the Russian Social Democratic Party
  • English Witch hunts and gender bias – gender played a huge role in witch hunts in Early-Modern Europe, and even the Catholic Church believed women were more prone to demonic possession

US History Research Paper Topics

American History topics are always interesting, and there is usually lots of evidence and sources to help you write a good research paper .

For anyone interested in US History, these American history research paper topics for college students are great ones to get stuck into:

  • What led to the USA civil war? The American Civil War is one of the most written about and studied parts of U.S. history
  • History of US elections
  • Social Conflicts in the American Revolution
  • The US Federalist Era
  • African-Americans in the civil war
  • Segregation and Racism in the United States – African American history research paper topics are always an interesting read
  • The first Native American civilizations
  • The American Civil War and the distribution of wealth
  • The 1992 Riots in Los Angeles – lots of lootings, civil disturbances, and arson in April and May 1992 due to the LAPD using excessive force when arresting Rodney King
  • The Impact of Barack Obama

Art History Research Paper Topics

When many people look for history research paper topics for middle school, they like to combine it with another subject they are studying, like art. Some people also write about music history paper topics . Here are some historical topics that are on the subject of art.

  • Art History Vs Art Studio
  • US art history and politics
  • Frank Stella’s life
  • Art and war
  • Links between philosophy and art
  • Symbolism in the paintings of Frida Kahlo
  • Salvador Dali and his surrealist sculptures
  • Gothic architecture
  • Women and beauty standards in the Renaissance
  • The differences between art deco and art nouveau

Having the freedom to choose an essay topic can be both exciting and daunting. It is a huge challenge and responsibility. Hopefully, though, one of our research paper topics 2023 will help set you off on the right path to producing a great essay!

Remember that writing a history research paper is different from writing an essay. With this type of essay, you need to combine your own ideas with the ideas of historians and researchers before you come up with a supporting argument to a thesis. While you might choose any one of our ideas above, you should always bear in mind that you’ll need to find sources and evidence to use in your research paper. If you find a topic that is too difficult to find enough information on, it might be that you should choose a different slant or a different topic altogether. You should never leave this sort of paper until the last minute before the deadline. A research paper takes time and effort and done right, is a really satisfying assignment to hand in. If you find yourself in need of assistance, consider looking into research paper writing services , as they may be able to provide additional help and guidance. Good luck!

Readers also enjoyed

250+ Research Paper Topics for Art Lovers and Curious Minds

WHY WAIT? PLACE AN ORDER RIGHT NOW!

Just fill out the form, press the button, and have no worries!

We use cookies to give you the best experience possible. By continuing we’ll assume you board with our cookie policy.

art history research paper topics 20th century

Enjoy a completely custom, expertly-written dissertation. Choose from hundreds of writers, all of whom are career specialists in your subject.

A List of Unique Art Research Paper Topics

art research paper topics

Art is an exciting field of study, and research in this area is fun to do. We have identified the different areas and the possible topics you can research on. Art is a broad area of study but choosing a topic is not as difficult as you think. With the right guide, you can find interesting topics for your thesis. We have some tips to get you on the right path. We also provide you with some tips on how to choose a research topic in the arts.

How to Choose the Right Art Topic

Choosing a project topic in arts requires careful thought. To make things easier for you, we have noted some areas to consider before picking a research topic.

¡         Consider Your Interest

Art is a field of study that emphasizes creativity. It is a field that will require you to bring your creativity to bear. What happens if you search your mind and nothing comes out?

This problem can happen if you do not have an interest in the area. Even if you can come up with something, the ideas will not flow if you write about your area of interest.

There are areas of difficulty in every research, but you will be more inclined to find working solutions if it is your area of interest. If you are working on your area of study, you will be better attuned to the research. It also helps the overall look of your research. Your enthusiasm is essential in every project work.

¡         Access to Material

Before you decide to take on a topic for research in arts, you should consider the availability of materials and your access to them. Materials may be available, but you may not have access to them.

Essential questions to ask are, are there materials on this topic? Have books been published in this area? Are there articles online on this topic? You may also want to check if your school library has materials on the topic.

Then you have to ask if you have access to these materials. Can you download the material online? Or read them online? Are the books available for sale? If you answer yes, then you are good to go.

¡         Identify a Gap

Research is called so because someone else has researched that area before. So, what you are doing is a “re-search.” However, previous research could not have covered every aspect of that field or topic. Therefore, you have to identify that gap and fill it.

Without proper research, you will not come up with a viable topic. In academics, you do not have to repeat what someone has done already.

Expert Consulting for Art Research Paper Topics

Looking to excel in your art research paper? Our professional dissertation consultant is here to support you. With their expertise in the field of art, they can provide personalized guidance and advice on selecting engaging topics, conducting thorough research, and crafting a compelling art research paper. Benefit from the knowledge and experience of our dissertation consultants to enhance the quality and impact of your work. Contact us today to unlock the full potential of your art research paper with our expert consulting services.

Modern Art Topics

  • Themes in 21 st century paintings
  • Themes in 20 th century paintings
  • The new media and arts
  • Filmography in the 21 st century
  • Emerging forms in modern arts
  • Modern art as a viable tool for activism
  • Impact of technology on modern arts
  • Themes in modern poetry
  • What is the influence of feminism on modern art?
  • Gendered roles in modern arts

Media Art History Research Paper Topics

  • Art development and the media
  • Dynamics of art produced using the media
  • Globalization, digital art, and emerging discusses
  • Globalization, electronic art, and activism
  • Literature and the new media
  • Poetic rendition in the new media
  • The impact of digital technologies on art
  • Advertising in the 21 st century
  • Filmic art in the 21 st century
  • Computer games as art

Pop Art Research Paper Topics

  • Comic books as tools for social criticism
  • Advertising and sublimation: a study of the human psyche
  • Pop art as a platform for activism
  • Popular pop artists in the 21 st century
  • Thematic and stylistic trends in pop art
  • Technology and ethics in pop art
  • Pop art as high and low art
  • Pop art as an economy booster
  • Principles of pop art
  • Interaction and connection between pop art and other art forms

Visual Art Research Topics

  • Painting as pedagogy
  • Sculpture in the modern age
  • The creative works of popular artists
  • Aesthetics of painting: a study of an artist’s creations
  • A comparison of style of different artists
  • Trends in photography in different generations
  • Impact of technology on visual art
  • Socioeconomic impact of animation
  • Impact of visual art on culture
  • Visual art and feminism

Art Therapy Research Paper Topics

  • The interworking of therapy and art
  • The use of art for therapeutic effects
  • Technological approaches to art therapy
  • The use of virtual reality in art therapy
  • Theories of art therapy
  • Dance therapy for the treatment of anxiety
  • Color therapy for children with learning disabilities
  • Music as therapy for depression
  • The evolution of art therapy

Art History Research Paper Topics

  • Impact of the industrial revolution on art
  • Themes and styles of painting in the 20 th and 21 st centuries
  • Aesthetics and styles in Francisco de Goya’s works
  • The place of art in human civilization
  • A comparison of the work of two prominent painters
  • Themes and styles of music in the 20 th and 21 st centuries
  • Influence of ancient philosophers on art
  • The aesthetics and style of Michelangelo’s works
  • The place of erotica in the arts
  • History of paintings in different cultures

Ancient Art History Research Paper Topics

  • Art forms and styles in Greece
  • Compare the artworks of different artists
  • Biblical motives in the works of Leonardo da Vinci
  • Early African arts and history
  • The history behind early roman arts
  • Chinese arts and lifestyle before the 21 st century
  • Ancient Egyptian arts and lifestyle
  • History of the pyramid of Egypt
  • The contribution of the Greek theatre to dramatic arts
  • Early arts and religion

Classical Greek Art Research Paper Topic

Classical Greek art-related topics for a research paper is an intelligent choice. There are several areas you can focus on including:

  • The different styles of Greeks pottery
  • Myths in classical Greek sculpture
  • Aesthetics and style of Greek architecture
  • Compare the works of legendary sculptors
  • Impact of religion on Greek artworks
  • Compare ancient Greek art with the present
  • The influence of science in Greek arts
  • Styles of Phidias sculptor
  • Imagery and symbolism in classical Greek arts
  • Relationship between classical Greek arts and Greece lifestyle

Renaissance Art Topics

  • A comparison of renaissance art in different parts of Europe
  • What was the influence of renaissance art on man’s worldview?
  • How is renaissance art different from those of the medieval age?
  • What are the aesthetics of the art of the time?
  • How is the nobility of man portrayed in the art forms of the age?
  • How was the renaissance a revival of classical Roman and Greek art?
  • What are the forms and styles of renaissance art?
  • History, evolution, and preservation of renaissance arts
  • How do the renaissance arts portray humanism and individualism?
  • What are the theories of renaissance art?

20th Century Research Paper Topics Art History

  • Specific museum and its art collection
  • Harlem renaissance as a springboard for art activism
  • Aesthetics and styles of Pablo Picasso’s arts
  • Influence of Jackson Pollock’s arts
  • Influence of religion and science on the 20 th century arts
  • Compare earlier art styles with those of the 20 th century
  • Artistic movements in the 20 th century
  • Political cartoons and their influence in 20 th century politics
  • Influence of earlier art style on 20 th art styles
  • The prominent art movement of the 20 th century

Great Thai Art Topic for a Research Paper

  • The culture and artistic heritage of Thailand
  • Influence of religion on Thai arts
  • Representation of Thai social life in Thai arts
  • Folk heritage of Thailand
  • Aesthetic and stylistic import of Thai arts
  • Ancient and prehistoric art forms
  • A diachronic study of Thai arts from prehistoric times to the present
  • Signs and symbols in Thai arts
  • The influence of globalization on contemporary Thai arts
  • Messages in line, color, and space in Thai art.

Medieval Art History Research Paper Topics

  • Aesthetics and style of Raphael’s paintings
  • Religious and non-religious art forms that originated from the time
  • The evolution and sustenance of art forms
  • Compare the artworks of Michelangelo and Raphael
  • History of renaissance arts
  • Symbols and motif in medieval paintings
  • Religious motifs in Leonardo de Vinci’s paintings
  • Aesthetics and styles of Byzantine art style
  • Evolution of early Christian arts,
  • Elements of Gothic arts

Mexican Revolutionary Art Research Paper Topics

  • Impact of the Mexican revolution on Mexican lifestyle
  • History and effects of revolutionary arts
  • Compare the artworks of Frida Kahlo, Diego, Rivera
  • Surrealism in Mexican arts
  • Mural paintings during the Mexican revolution
  • The place of arts in Mexican revolution
  • Different phases of the Mexican revolution and the artworks created during that time
  • Impact of the Mexican revolution on people’s perception of art
  • Compare Mexican revolutionary arts with those created after the revolution
  • Aesthetics and style of David Alfaro Siqueiros’s artworks

Argumentative Art Topics

Some art research paper topics in these areas include:

  • The most significant artwork in the 20th century
  • Is graffiti art or vandalism?
  • Which city has the most remarkable art history and why?
  • The relevance of medieval art in contemporary times
  • How has the museum preserved art culture and enthusiasm
  • Modern pop culture does not measure up to earlier times. Argue for or against
  • Do ethics limit art?
  • Has technology limited creativity in art?
  • Is the role of the artist in society relevant?
  • Do cartoons fuel or mediate in political issues?

Good South East Asia Art Topics for a Research Paper

  • Asia is a place of high artistic creations. Discuss
  • Compare ancient and contemporary Asian arts
  • History of calligraphy arts in East Asia
  • What is the philosophy behind ancient artistic creations of different ages?
  • The evolution of Bollywood
  • How does Chinese circus art reflect the Chinese tradition?
  • Jewelry styles and meaning in India
  • Aesthetics and styles in Japanese calligraphy art
  • Religious relevance of art in south India
  • The evolution of pop culture in India

Researches in art are not difficult if taken the right way. With this guide, picking an area of study and identifying the gap is not tedious. We have helped you out in this regard with the information provided above.

Frequently Asked Questions

Richard Ginger is a dissertation writer and freelance columnist with a wealth of knowledge and expertise in the writing industry. He handles every project he works on with precision while keeping attention to details and ensuring that every work he does is unique.

art history research paper topics 20th century

Succeed With A Perfect Dissertation

Commemorative Speech Topics

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

As Putin continues killing civilians, bombing kindergartens, and threatening WWIII, Ukraine fights for the world's peaceful future.

Ukraine Live Updates

20th-Century Art: A Resource for Educators

20th-Century Art: A Resource for Educators

How to Use This Resource A Note to Educators Format Student Goals Some General Thoughts about 20th-century Art for Discussion

Works in the Museum's Collection Entries Pablo Picasso, Gertrude Stein Pablo Picasso, Still Life with Pipes Henri Matisse, Nasturtiums with "Dance Wassily Kandinsky, The Garden of Love ( Improvisation Number 27 ) Giorgio de Chirico, Ariadne Marsden Hartley, Portrait of a German Officer Fernand LĂŠger, Woman with a Cat Paul Klee, Cold City Piet Mondrian, Composition Constantin Brancusi, Bird in Space Joan MirĂł, Animated Landscape Charles Demuth, The Figure Five in Gold Georgia O'Keeffe, Red, White, and Blue Grant Wood, The Ride of Paul Revere Stuart Davis, Report from Rockport Willem de Kooning, Woman Arshile Gorky, Water of the Flowery Mill Alberto Giacometti, Three Men Walking II Jackson Pollock, Autumn Rhythm ( Number 30 ) David Smith, Tanktotem, II Edward Hopper, Office in a Small City Jasper Johns, White Flag Mark Rothko, No. 13 ( White, Red on Yellow ) Romare Bearden, The Block James Rosenquist, House of Fire Red Grooms, Chance Encounter at 3 A.M. Andy Warhol, Last Self-Portrait Isamu Noguchi, Water Stone Chuck Close, Lucas Anselm Kiefer, Bohemia Lies by the Sea

Appendix Artists' Writings: A Selection of Primary Sources Poems Related to Specific Paintings Included in This Resource A Very Selective Glance at Some Key Historical Events That Have Shaped Our Period Selected Sources for Further Information

Met Art in Publication

Gertrude Stein, Pablo Picasso  Spanish, Oil on canvas

You May Also Like

Twentieth-Century Art: Selections from the Collection of The Metropolitan Museum of Art. Vol. 2, Painting, 1945-1985

Twentieth-Century Art: Selections from the Collection of The Metropolitan Museum of Art. Vol. 2, Painting, 1945–1985

Twentieth-Century Art: Selections from the Collection of The Metropolitan Museum of Art. Vol. 1, Painting, 1905-1945

Twentieth-Century Art: Selections from the Collection of The Metropolitan Museum of Art. Vol. 1, Painting, 1905–1945

Studio Glass in The Metropolitan Museum of Art

Studio Glass in The Metropolitan Museum of Art

Contemporary Ceramics: Selections from The Metropolitan Museum of Art

Contemporary Ceramics: Selections from The Metropolitan Museum of Art

Modern Design in The Metropolitan Museum of Art, 1890-1990

Modern Design in The Metropolitan Museum of Art, 1890–1990

Related content.

  • Essay Abstract Expressionism
  • Essay Cubism
  • Essay Edward Hopper (1882–1967)
  • Essay Henri Matisse (1869–1954)
  • Essay Jasper Johns (born 1930)
  • Essay Modern Storytellers: Romare Bearden, Jacob Lawrence, Faith Ringgold
  • Essay Pablo Picasso (1881–1973)
  • Essay Paul Klee (1879–1940)
  • Essay Surrealism

Paul, Stella. 1999. Twentieth-Century Art: A Resource for Educators : The Metropolitan Museum of Art . New York: Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Art Research Paper Topics

25 May, 2022

14 minutes read

Author:  Elizabeth Brown

Students obtaining degrees in fine art and art & design programs most commonly need to write a paper on art topics. However, this subject is becoming more popular in educational institutions for expanding students’ horizons. Thus, both groups of receivers of education: those who are into arts and those who only get acquainted with art […]

Art Research Paper Topics

Students obtaining degrees in fine art and art & design programs most commonly need to write a paper on art topics. However, this subject is becoming more popular in educational institutions for expanding students’ horizons. Thus, both groups of receivers of education: those who are into arts and those who only get acquainted with art basics, need to write unique and engaging art research papers.

At first glance, art seems an extensive subject with many aspects to investigate. But sometimes, it’s overwhelming to understand and contextualize art epochs, movements, and representatives in their art history research paper. It is challenging to sort out what art research paper topics are worth investigating. Writing about art and especially finding the appropriate art research topics is more complicated than making art.

Therefore, in this article, you will explore compelling ideas for your future art research paper topics. Move on and get inspired to create a unique research theme that will bring you academic success.

Choosing the Right Art Research Paper Topics

You can find an abundance of art research paper topics on the internet, but it’s not guaranteed they are good for you. There are certain things to consider before choosing the art paper theme and start working on it. Take a look at tips on how to select the best art history research paper topic and compile a high-quality study.

Select the Art Category

People have been creating aesthetic objects and experiences and sharing their masterpieces for centuries. There are traditionally distinguished seven branches of art, including literature, music, architecture, the graphic arts, the visual arts, the plastic arts, the decorative arts, and the performing arts. So before browsing art topics, choose the art branch you will further research.

Decide What to Study

Sound art research topics do not cover everything in one paper. It’s necessary to define what art aspect will be subjected to research in the study. Students can select an artistic movement like romanticism, realism, baroque, classicism, or surrealism for the most interesting art topics. It’s also possible to research an art epoch, a prominent artist, or a piece of art.

Brainstorm Ideas

For choosing the best theme of possible art research paper topics, come up with ideas and do prior research. Find out what is relevant to cover for today, what has not been investigated thoroughly, whether there are enough sources for references, and if the art research paper theme you want to explore corresponds to your course plan and instructions. 

What Are the Most Engaging Art Topics

Every art movement and period has outstanding representatives and fascinating artworks worth exploring. Your art history research paper will be interesting once you like what you do and can present it clearly to the readers. Art seems complex, but if you are well aware of the subject, you can do compelling research on different art topics. Students with no experience in writing art research papers can get inspiration from the list of the most engrossing art topics.

So you can write about using art as propaganda and what messages hide in artworks or sequential art. Deciding what you are absorbing art research paper topics is up to you as it’s only you who can engage the audience.

Artist Bibliography Art Topics

If you are not well knowledgeable about art and want to make a high-quality art research paper, this topic is right for you. You can choose the artist whose works attract you the most and tell in your research about their life and becoming an artist. Students are free to choose art topics on influential art representatives or unknown craters with engaging bibliography.

In order to make your art history research paper not simply listing pieces of artworks of a specific author, you should focus on investigating a distinct feature of these works. Thus, your history research paper topics may touch upon sensual creations by Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Parisian life in Edgar Degas’s works, or the influence of celebrities on Andy Warhol’s art.

Art History Research Paper Topics

Writing an art history research paper is a great choice for students not willing to dive into art symbols and details. With a variety of art history research paper topics, you can easily find the best option or create your own theme. Students can benefit from numerous studies and literature sources to do original research. So potential art research paper topics focus on Ancient Egyptian Art, Greek Art, Christian Roman Art, Celtic Art, or Modern Art.

The ideas for your history research paper topics include defining similarities and differences between art styles at a specific time in the history of art development. It’s possible to research the influence of beauty, wars, and historical events on ancient and modern art.

Provocative Art Research Paper Topics at Different Periods

Every art epoch has introduced something new to art history and shaped the development of modern art movements. There are many decent artworks that activate thinking and aim at solving some problems. You can contemplate these masterpieces and their creators in thought-provoking art research paper topics. Touch in your art research paper on specific periods in art development.

Contemporary art topics are considered the most provocative as tragic global events and revolutionary personalities transformed the perception of the world and art. So here, we will focus on art research topics of the last three centuries.

Papers on the 18th-Century Art

The 18th-century history research paper topics are predominantly characterized by the shift to Rococo and Neoclassicism. This century was marked by revolutions, archaeological discoveries, industrial changes, and the era of Enlightenment. So the 18th-century art research topics feature great masterpieces and new ideas. Artists mix classical elements with brand new genres generating impressive pieces of art.

You can feature in your art research paper prominent artists of that epoch, including Filippo Juvarra, Luigi Vanvitelli, Jacques-Louis David, and Antonio Canova. It will also be a great idea for art topics to analyze their creations paying attention to preserving classical traditions, mythological subjects, urban views, landscapes, revolution scenes, etc.

Papers on the 19th-Century Art

Modern art developed in the 19th century due to the successful industrial revolution, social movements, Marxism, and feminism. The history research paper topics on the art of that century can cover artistic styles. Tell in your art research paper about Romanticism, Neoclassicism, Realism, Impressionism, Post-Impressionism, and Art Nouveau, all developed in the 19th.

Each style has its prominent artists whose masterpieces deserve research. Cover provocative works by Édouard Manet in your 19th-century art research paper. In your art research paper topics you can touch upon Francisco de Goya, Henri Rousseau, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Vincent van Gogh, Paul Gauguin, and others. 

Papers on the 20th-Century Art

The 20th-century ideas for art research paper topics are multiple and diverse due to the emergence of artistic movements and global changes. You can tell a lot in an art research paper about Abstract Expressionism, Cubism, Pop Art, Fauvism, Minimalism, Futurism, Dada, Surrealism, Conceptual Art, and Photorealism. Among thought-provoking artists of that time we can name Stanley Kubrick, Dan Flavin, Joseph Beuys, Jacques Duval-Brasseur, Ellsworth Kelly, and Jasper Johns.

The history research paper topics can cover how contemporary art rejects traditional aesthetic values, experimenting with forms, materials, techniques, and processes. Win-win ideas for art research topics are to take a fresh look at Kazimir Malevich’s Black Square or Salvador DalĂ­’s Metamorphosis of Narcissus.

Major Eras in the Arts

The history of art started dozens of thousands of years ago. Each art period is complex and has many to tell about, lasting from 30 to 300 years. In their art research paper, a student can focus on the art epoch of their interest and research its development, features, artists, and creations. The Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, Rococo, Classicism, Romanticism, Realism, Cubism, Symbolism, Expressionism, and other art eras can find their place in students’ art research paper topics.

Let’s find major art epochs and their brief descriptions you can inspire from for your art research paper.

Flamboyant Baroque

Writing an art research paper on the Baroque era (1590-1760) is an engaging endeavor that will make you dive into the magnificent world of princes and kings. Your Baroque art research paper topics may refer to man as the central power. Students can explore in history research paper topics the role of opposites: light and dark, warm and cold, good and evil in that era. Art was a way to show power and wealth, so investigate this aspect in art research topics.

Sensual Romanticism

Your art research paper on romanticism may be focused on the emotiveness and sublime imagery of the art era. Romanticism (1790-1850) art research paper topics should highlight the role of nature and subconsciousness in masterpieces of that time. Students can choose art research topics that explore influential German, English, and French painters of the Romanticism period. They interpreted the world differently and wanted to oppose the stern nature of classicism.

You can study romanticism literature and music in your history research paper topics.

Fleeting Impressionism

In the art research paper devoted to the Impressionist era of modern art, it’s possible to research the phenomenon of art for art’s sake. Impressionism mostly manifested itself in painting due to prominent artists like Claude Monet, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, and Vincent van Gough. Impressionism (1850-1895) art research paper topics can be dedicated to music and ballet. There’s much to investigate in history research paper topics, so choose the art category, your favorite artist, and their impressive masterpieces.

Research Topics on Various Cultures

Art and culture are tightly interconnected as every culture develops its unique art forms. Thus, your art research paper may feature Aboriginal, Aztec, China, African, Indian, and Japanese cultures. Students can analyze in their art research topics how these cultures influenced art development. The interesting art topics focus on the investigation of the role of cultural identity on art creation. For example, you can feature Japanese calligraphy, traditional Chinese clothing, Indian cinema, African tribal art, and more in your art research paper topics.

Research Topics on the Art of Photography

Photography is a fascinating art category for your art research paper. This type of visual art appeared back in the 19th century and still amazes people today. In your art history research paper, you can explore the role of photography in history, art, and everyday life. Researchers can investigate how digital technologies popularized photography.

Students can research the most prominent photographers of all times like Richard Avedon, Robert Frank, and Man Ray and their creations in art research topics. It’s possible to research street, war, nature, and portrait photography. A creative idea for art research paper topics is exploring the psychological dimension of the art of photography.

Research Topics on Art Therapy

Art therapy is one of the most interesting art topics for investigation. It is possible to study the origin and applications of art therapy in the art history research paper. In their art research paper, a student can focus on how art therapy helps overcome various diseases and improve mental health. You can write an art research paper on the healing power of color and music.

Also, research what pieces of art prove to be the most effective in helping people with disabilities, psychological traumas, or autism. Students can touch upon prominent art therapists and their achievements.

How Our Paper Writing Service Can Help You

Students resort to essay writer assistance for many reasons, and the writing service’s market suggests many options to choose from. At our company, we provide professional academic writing services of different types on any topic you need and meet strict deadlines. Our team of certified authors can create a unique art research paper on any theme you need.

Writers have degrees in Fine Arts and Art & Design programs, ensuring high-quality art history research paper works. Contact us if the deadline for your art research paper is approaching and you do not know what topic to choose and what to start from. We will help you write an impressive paper and get an excellent mark!

A life lesson in Romeo and Juliet taught by death

A life lesson in Romeo and Juliet taught by death

Due to human nature, we draw conclusions only when life gives us a lesson since the experience of others is not so effective and powerful. Therefore, when analyzing and sorting out common problems we face, we may trace a parallel with well-known book characters or real historical figures. Moreover, we often compare our situations with […]

Ethical Research Paper Topics

Ethical Research Paper Topics

Writing a research paper on ethics is not an easy task, especially if you do not possess excellent writing skills and do not like to contemplate controversial questions. But an ethics course is obligatory in all higher education institutions, and students have to look for a way out and be creative. When you find an […]

Art Research Paper Topics

Research Paper Guide

History Research Paper Topics

Last updated on: Nov 20, 2023

Good History Research Paper Topics For Your Help

By: Nathan D.

Reviewed By: Chris H.

Published on: Jan 4, 2022

History research paper topics

Research papers can be boring and time-consuming for some high school and university students. However, students will easily create a successful paper if they pick a great research paper topic. Some professors assign topics and make them easy for students. At the same time, others leave the choice to students by giving them the freedom to choose what they want.

The following blog post is a helpful resource for students who need ideas on what topics they can write about. It includes some great topics from which you'll be able to choose the best topic or get inspiration for your paper.

History is a fascinating subject that we should all know more about. There are many topics, and it's always hard to pick which one will work best for your research paper.

However, for your help, we compiled a great list of history  research paper  topics that can be divided into different categories. So, pick the one that matches your interest and academic level.

History research paper topics

On this Page

History Research Paper Topics For College Students

  • Nuclear weapons and their influence on the world military clashes
  • The Crusades and Jihad: What are the similarities and differences?
  • Constitutional change in America: what is the role of the amendments?
  • What does religion have to do with the colonist wars?
  • How were ziggurats used in ancient Mesopotamia?
  • Ancient conquests and their impact on modern world map development
  • When were vaccines invented? Are they really useful?
  • The influence of Japanese art on European culture
  • How did segregation affect the American music industry?
  • Is racial discrimination still a part of American society?

History Research Paper Topics Before 1877

  • How did the border states perceive the battles of the Civil War?
  • Impact of the 1964 elections on civil rights
  • History before 1877: cause & effect
  • Explain the strengths and weaknesses of the Fourteenth Amendment
  • Explain American history before 1877
  • Labor unions, conflicts, and strikes in the 1800s
  • The British rule in the Americas and the first British settlements
  • United States foreign policy in the early 19th century
  • Why was the Bill of Rights added to the Constitution?
  • The role of faith in American history before 1877

History Research Paper Topics Philippines

  • The fundamentals of the Barrio Government System
  • The origins of the name the Philippines
  • Communist Party of the Philippines
  • Trading with the Chinese
  • The Consequences of Magellan’s murder
  • US colonization of the Philippines
  • Fire Mummies of the Philippines
  • Christian-Muslim relations in the Philippines
  • The religious belief system in the Philippines
  • The reorganization of town governments under the Maura law of 1893

Order Essay

Paper Due? Why Suffer? That's our Job!

Indian History Research Paper Topics

  • What are the European influences evident in Indian culture?
  • The establishment of the British East India company
  • British colonialism in India
  • The real problem at the heart of goa's Devasthan regulation
  • Indian art and the impact of Hinduism
  • The issues of the partitioning of India in 1947
  • First European powers in India and their trade relations
  • What were the devastating impacts of British rule in India?
  • India’s first empire and the rise of Buddhism
  • The political activism of Dalits in India

History Research Paper Topics 20th Century

  • McKinley role for American imperialism
  • The reasons and causes for the start of prohibition and its effects on subsequent US history
  • The assassination of John Kennedy in 1963 and its consequences
  • Were imperialism in the late 19th and early 20th century justified?
  • The implication of atomic weapon
  • China in the 20th century
  • Hiroshima and Nagasaki events
  • The role of America in the Cold War
  • The analysis of Martin Luther King’s speeches
  • Rise of mafia

History Research Paper Topics 1900s

  • Queen Victoria died-World politics and the monarchy
  • What was the role of women in the 1900s?
  • The formation of the league of nations
  • Psychiatric methods in early 1900s America
  • The first electric washing machine
  • The NAACP is first founded-politics and civil rights
  • The New York subway opens-innovation and science
  • The origin of the piano
  • How did sports help promote equality for African Americans in the 1900s?
  • Gender roles of the Sioux tribe before 1900

Art History Research Paper Topics

  • Why were the sculptures of great importance in ancient Greece?
  • Comparative analysis of Mikhail Vrubel and Gustave Moreau art
  • The relevance of Abbey Church of St. Denis in Gothic architecture
  • The shifts in the art development in ancient Greece
  • Can impressionism be termed as simple art or art for the simple?
  • The significance of Christian symbols in Renaissance art
  • The influence of Hinduism on art from ancient India
  • Color psychology in the works of Kazimir Malevich.
  • The Influences of Sumerian art found in Hittite art creations
  • Construction of the Great Wall of China

European History Research Paper Topics

  • European colonization impact on Native Americans
  • The history of the French Revolution: new perspectives from Chartier and Furet
  • What made Pope Alexander VI controversial?
  • Great mistakes of Napoleon
  • How did Venetian history affect present Europe?
  • The role of politics in the spread of Christianity across Europe
  • How were cities developed in Medieval Europe?
  • Historical development of East European Jewry
  • The main battles of World War I
  • Between World War I and World War II, what are the military innovations?

Environmental History Research Paper Topics

  • What is the little ice age, and what impact it may have on the climate?
  • Landscape painters and environmental photography
  • Renewable energy
  • Discuss the most significant causes of climate change
  • Global warming: what could happen if ice glaciers melt?
  • Prehistoric wildlife and its importance in future eco-systems
  • How do organisms survive under extreme conditions?
  • What effects does biodiversity loss have on humanity?
  • Ecosystem health
  • Biomes and Ecosystems. What is considered a biome?

Tough Essay Due? Hire Tough Writers!

Theatre History History Research Paper Topics

  • Attitudes towards women and their role in American musical theatre
  • Puppetry influence on cartoons these days
  • President of the greater Euclid little theatre
  • Women in restoration theatre: stages of liberation
  • Theatre role as a tool in social commentary
  • Artaud’s theatre influence
  • Ancient Greek theatre and drama
  • Theatre play
  • State theatre
  • The use of historically accurate costumes on stage

Interesting History Research Paper Topics

  • The process of abolition of slavery and its meaning for the world
  • Timeline of the 21st century
  • American revolution facts
  • How have taxes been introduced throughout USA history?
  • Queen Elizabeth. The truth about her life.
  • The conditions of life for soldiers in the First Crusade
  • African American soldiers during the war
  • Money and its uses in the Ancient Greek world
  • The power of denial: Buddhism, purity, and gender
  • Polio vaccines: historical development, types, and efficiency

Us History Research Paper Topics

  • Industrialization effects on American social movements
  • Amelia Earhart: Who was she? What is the truth about her life and death?
  • Effect of the cotton gin on economy and slaves labor
  • What did “American” mean in the 18th century?
  • The oldest universities: who founded them?
  • How and why were National Parks created?
  • Immigrants and their ideas of the American Dream
  • What did France lose because of Louisiana’s purchase?
  • How did the war affect social life and citizens’ psychology?
  • German-American immigration in 1854-1894

19th Century American History Research Paper Topics

  • What struggles did women face in the Nineteenth Amendment?
  • The genre of black popular music
  • American south religious practices
  • Tobacco trade in early American colonies
  • The beginning of slavery in British America and the middle passage
  • Women’s suffrage movement
  • 1968 democratic convention in Chicago
  • Was there a need to bomb Hiroshima and Nagasaki?
  • The role of the United States during World War 2
  • What conditions were faced by the Americans in the 19th century?

Tips for Choosing the Best History Research Paper Topic

  • Here are some things to consider when choosing the topic for a history research paper.
  • Make sure your topic meets the assignment requirements. Consult your professor for feedback if you're not sure, and then use their input as guidance in completing it.
  • Choose a topic that interests you and will make the writing process more engaging.
  • A topic that is too broad might seem impossible to research. But, the right scope will enable you to find information relevant and focused.
  • Do some research and then select the topic.
  • Read other researchers’ thesis statements and get an idea from them.
  • Find history research papers from the past and read them for a better understanding.
  • Keep the audience’s interest in mind and then choose the topic.

Keep these points in mind, and then select the best topic, then add it to our AI essay generator to get instant essay help!

But, if you still have any confusion, simply consult the best essay writing service 5StarEssays.com .

We offer the best paper writing services and have helped countless students just like you with their academic tasks. Now, finding a good history topic is easy with the help of our expert writers.

So, don’t hesitate to contact us and avail the best  write essay for me?  writing help.

Nathan D.

Masters Essay, College Admission Essay

Nathan completed his Ph.D. in journalism and has been writing articles for well-respected publications for many years now. His work is carefully researched and insightful, showing a true passion for the written word. Nathan's clients appreciate his expertise, deep understanding of the process, and ability to communicate difficult concepts clearly.

Was This Blog Helpful?

Keep reading.

  • How to Write a Research Paper - Writing Guide & Examples

History research paper topics

  • 20+ Thesis Statement Examples for Research Papers

History research paper topics

  • Learn How to Write an Abstract - Steps & Examples

History research paper topics

  • How to Write a Literature Review: Steps and Outline

History research paper topics

  • How to Start a Research Paper - 9 Simple Steps

History research paper topics

  • Psychology Research Topics - 170+ Ideas for Your Paper

History research paper topics

  • How to Write a Hypothesis - A Step-by-Step Guide

History research paper topics

  • Writing a Research Proposal - Outline, Format, and Examples

History research paper topics

  • Good Research Paper Topics & Ideas for Students

History research paper topics

  • How to Cite a Research Paper with the Help of Examples

History research paper topics

  • How to Write a Research Methodology in 10 Simple Steps

History research paper topics

  • Research Paper Outline - Basic Format & Sample

History research paper topics

  • Research Paper Example: Samples to Write a Research Paper

History research paper topics

  • Great Sociology Research Topics & Ideas (2024)

History research paper topics

People Also Read

  • how to write a summary
  • types of qualitative research
  • writing a book
  • how to write a conclusion

Burdened With Assignments?

Bottom Slider

Advertisement

  • Homework Services: Essay Topics Generator

Š 2024 - All rights reserved

Facebook Social Icon

What a Southern Plantation’s Paper Trail Can Reveal about the Lasting Legacies of Slavery

Historian mary snyder (grs’29) spent her summer building the archives of the whitney plantation’s store.

Photo: Mary Snyder, a white woman with shoulder length hair, is a BU PhD student in the American Studies program. She stands in a room with rows of wooden bare shelves. Photo: Mary Snyder, a white woman with shoulder length hair, is a BU PhD student in the American Studies program. She stands in a room with rows of wooden bare shelves.

Before her summer internship at the Whitney Plantation, Mary Snyder (GRS’29) worked for the Historic Charleston Foundation and Monticello, the home of founding father Thomas Jefferson. Photo by Sydney Joelle Walker

Amy Laskowski

Rice (30 cents), oatmeal (20 cents), and meat (50 cents) all appear on Whitney Plantation worker John Johnson’s 1953 grocery bill. He spent $14.18 on 24 items, a balance carried over when he left Whitney to start a new job at a nearby plantation. “We understand that Johnson owns a balance of about $25,” his new manager wrote to his former boss . “Will you therefore bill me for the difference as soon as possible?”.

This running total would continue to follow Johnson, indebting him to his bosses—just like thousands of other Black Americans who worked as sharecroppers on Southern plantations until the 1970s. 

The bill and the letter are two of thousands of records studied by Boston University PhD student Mary Snyder , who spent her summer on the grounds of Whitney Plantation, now a historic site, on the banks of the Mississippi River in Louisiana, about an hour’s drive west of New Orleans. Snyder (GRS’29) pored over decades of handwritten receipts, tax returns, insurance claims, letters, and other documents from the Whitney Plantation’s store, which sold everything from clothing to medicine to groceries—and even handled workers’ personal affairs.

art history research paper topics 20th century

The records, Snyder says, tell an important story of the Jim Crow era. After emancipation, formerly enslaved workers often returned to plantations to work for low wages and in harsh conditions. Without money for housing or food, they had no choice. Plantation owners in turn set up stores, where the workers could buy groceries, medicine, clothing, and other items—usually at inflated prices and on a credit system. Anything the workers purchased from the store was subtracted from their paychecks at the end of the week. All of this prevented them from getting out of debt and moving off the plantation.

“Little has been written on wage-fixing in sugar plantations during this time frame,” says Snyder, a student in American and New England studies. “Many plantations don’t do an in-depth study of what happens to the site after Reconstruction.” 

When Snyder took on the project, she wondered what records, like tax returns from the 1950s, could add to understanding the history of these hallowed grounds. Building on a decade of research performed by Whitney’s executive director, Ashley Rogers, Snyder’s 12-week internship involved cataloging 52 boxes of documents that, in the future, will be digitized and available to researchers. 

“The collection provides an understanding of the legacies of slavery in that transformation: postbellum into Jim Crow into the civil rights era,” Snyder says. “We have a tendency to jump from the period of enslavement right into the present day, or we’ll talk about Jim Crow, but we don’t see how nuanced the mechanisms are that stay in place even after emancipation.”

A Different Kind of Plantation Tour

Other plantations in the South host weddings and offer tours of the “big house” by costumed guides, complete with mint juleps on the porch and nary a mention of the brutality that earned the owners their fortunes.

The Whitney is strikingly different, asking visitors to confront the country’s deep-seated effects of racism. It is considered the first and still one of the only museums in the country to focus on slavery. Mitch Landrieu, the former mayor of New Orleans and a top advisor to President Biden, once compared the site’s significance to Auschwitz. 

art history research paper topics 20th century

The plantation was started in 1752 by the Haydel family and expanded over the years, growing indigo plants, rice, and, most important, sugar. Sugar was a brutal crop that required constant, hazardous labor, and “for many enslaved people, being sold south to Louisiana was considered a death sentence,” reads the history section on the Whitney’s website. At its peak, the grounds were run by more than 350 enslaved people who produced more than 400,000 pounds of sugar every year. They also tended to the owner’s family, who lived in the Creole-style “big house” mansion, which is flanked by an allée of Spanish moss oaks.

After the Civil War ended, the house fell into disrepair, and its future was uncertain. In 1999, a wealthy local trial lawyer bought the Whitney land . After learning the site’s history and seeing documents that included the names of enslaved people, he felt compelled to invest $8 million of his own money to restore the property and develop it into a museum. He collaborated with artists, historians, preservationists, and researchers in the lead-up to the site’s 2014 opening. 

Today, when visitors arrive at the Whitney, they receive a card with the name and story of a formerly enslaved person who’d been interviewed by the Federal Writers’ Project in the 1930s. Eerily placed around the site’s chapel are 40 life-size casts of slave children who lived—and, in many cases, died—on the plantation. The grounds also include seven slave cabins, and just outside their doors are massive iron kettles that enslaved people used to boil sugar cane.

art history research paper topics 20th century

Although Snyder has spent years studying historic preservation and interpretation of 19th-century US historical sites tied to the history of enslavement, she was surprised and affected by her first visit to the Whitney. 

“The mission of the site is to provide a history of slavery, and so when you go around the grounds and through the buildings, it feels like you are genuinely following these enslaved men, women, and families’ life journeys,” she says. “Unlike many other sites, there is little attention given to the enslavers.” 

This spring, Snyder, who has a master’s degree in library and information science from Wayne State University, was looking for an internship and contacted executive director Rogers, who enthusiastically hired her to help finish their store’s archives project.

art history research paper topics 20th century

Before the Whitney opened to the public, Rogers had found previously untouched boxes of records in the plantation store. Much of the contents had been damaged and were covered in dirt and dust, but she salvaged hundreds of records spanning 1939 to 1975. In 2015, Rogers began working on this archival research project with help from previous interns and the Historic New Orleans Collection. In 2022, the Whitney received $85,000 from the African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund, a program of the National Trust for Historic Preservation, to aid in the project.

art history research paper topics 20th century

“Everything had already been sorted into major themes, but there was no structure within those themes,” Rogers says. “Mary’s work this summer has helped to cap off a decade-long project. These records tell the story of the plantation in the 20th century, and they will be invaluable to Whitney Plantation as well as future researchers.”

Snyder created a cataloging system within the existing overarching structure. She reorganized and meticulously ordered the records, which had been stacked in boxes or housed in sheets of transparent Mylar. Most important, she inventoried each box and created a metadata system (a structured index), which will be especially helpful to future researchers. Her work is also helping inform the ongoing physical restoration and interpretation of the plantation store, which will one day be open to visitors. 

Snyder says those brittle invoices, payroll records, medical bills, and letters revealed a few themes. “They paint a really paternalistic picture of how, while these workers were no longer enslaved, the plantation owners maintained control over their lives through wage-fixing and other means,” she says. “They created a system in which anything that the employee or the laborer needed, the plantation store would source those things, and then determine how much to deduct from their paycheck. A lot of times the laborers didn’t even have cash in hand. And that was to restrict their economic mobility. So my work traced that.”

art history research paper topics 20th century

Snyder says the files contain tax returns, insurance claims, receipts, orders, correspondence, doctor bills, payroll, and manuals. Photos by Sydney Joelle Walker

Rogers says she is unaware of any other Southern plantation doing similar work with their store records, though she has seen some plantation store records in university archives. “On the whole, I think this is a very under-researched area,” she says. “I think that because plantations are so focused on the antebellum era, they may not see the value in preserving these 20th-century records.” She hopes that the analysis of how plantations operated in the 20th century will soon catch up to what we know about their Civil War-era histories.

Snyder says she was honored to work on the Whitney Plantation and chip away at this project. “It is a museum that really does fulfill its mission: it is dedicated to pushing forth a more inclusive narrative,” she says. “It was also eye-opening for me, as someone who usually is in the 19th-century space, to recognize how little we fully understand what happened in 20th century daily life…. Preserving and interpreting records and buildings from this period will help us all better understand how the legacy of slavery truly permeates through to today.”

A Prominent BU Alum’s Descendants Were Enslaved on the Whitney Plantation

Sybil Haydel Morial (Wheelock’52,’55) was a retired educator and longtime community and civil rights activist in her home city of New Orleans. She died at age 91 on September 4.

In her memoir, Witness to Change: From Jim Crow to Political Empowerment (John F. Blair, 2015), Morial recounts the story of her great-great-grandmother Anna, who was purchased from an auction house by the Whitney Plantation’s original owners, Marcelin and Azelie Haydel. As was the case with many enslaved women, Anna was assaulted by one of the Haydel men, and her son was, therefore, also enslaved. 

Eventually, Morial’s family fought their way off the plantation. In her book, she describes how she grew up in New Orleans’ Seventh Ward in a bungalow built “by a freeborn man of color.” Her father was a respected Creole surgeon. Morial attended Xavier College for two years before transferring to BU, where she met Martin Luther King, Jr. (GRS’55, Hon. 59) and went on to earn a master’s in education. Her husband, Ernest “Dutch” Morial, was the first Black mayor of New Orleans. They raised five children.

In addition to her long career in education, Morial organized the Louisiana League of Good Government, which has a mission to increase Black voter registration and turnout, and mentored women to become leaders.

Explore Related Topics:

  • Share this story
  • 0 Comments Add

Senior Writer Twitter Profile

Photo of Amy Laskowski. A white woman with long brown hair pulled into a half up, half down style and wearing a burgundy top, smiles and poses in front of a dark grey backdrop.

Amy Laskowski is a senior writer at Boston University. She is always hunting for interesting, quirky stories around BU and helps manage and edit the work of BU Today ’s interns. She did her undergrad at Syracuse University and earned a master’s in journalism at the College of Communication in 2015. Profile

Comments & Discussion

Boston University moderates comments to facilitate an informed, substantive, civil conversation. Abusive, profane, self-promotional, misleading, incoherent or off-topic comments will be rejected. Moderators are staffed during regular business hours (EST) and can only accept comments written in English. Statistics or facts must include a citation or a link to the citation.

Post a comment. Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Latest from The Brink

Why are kids struggling with anxiety more than ever, getting their hands dirty in the lab—and in the charles river, 2024 ignition awards aim to bring bu science and tech to market, bu team wins major national science foundation grant to help phd students attack climate change, liberation through rhythm: bu ethnomusicologist studies history and present of african beats, oxygen produced in the deep sea raises questions about extraterrestrial life, the histories of enslaved people were written by slavers. a bu researcher is working to change that, making mri more globally accessible: how metamaterials offer affordable, high-impact solutions, “i love this work, but it’s killing me”: the unique toll of being a spiritual leader today, feeling the heat researchers say heat waves will put more older adults in danger, what the history of boston’s harbor can teach us about its uncertain future, eng’s mark grinstaff one of six researchers to receive nsf trailblazer engineering impact awards, how do we solve america’s affordable housing crisis bu research helps inspire a federal bill that suggests answers, missile defense won’t save us from growing nuclear arsenals, this ai software can make diagnosing dementia easier and faster for doctors, suicide now the primary cause of death among active duty us soldiers, state laws banning abortion linked to increases in mental health issues, scuba diving safely for marine biology research, heat waves are scorching boston, but are some neighborhoods hotter than others.

Ancient Art History Research Paper Topics

Academic Writing Service

This page presents a comprehensive guide for students examining ancient art history research paper topics . The field of ancient art history, encompassing a vast spectrum of civilizations and epochs, offers countless areas of exploration. We have prepared an extensive list of 100 research paper topics, meticulously categorized into ten sections, each reflecting a specific region or era in ancient art history. Expert advice on selecting relevant ancient art history research paper topics is provided, complemented by practical tips on writing an impactful and academically robust ancient art history research paper. In the next segment, we introduce iResearchNet’s custom writing services. Students have the opportunity to order a personalized ancient art history research paper on any chosen topic.

100 Ancient Art History Research Paper Topics

Introduction: In this section, we present a comprehensive list of ancient art history research paper topics. By exploring these topics, students studying art history can find inspiration for their research papers and delve into the fascinating world of ancient art. The following 10 categories encompass various aspects of ancient art history, providing a wide range of options to explore.

Academic Writing, Editing, Proofreading, And Problem Solving Services

Get 10% off with 24start discount code.

Prehistoric Art

  • The Origins of Cave Paintings: Symbolism and Interpretation
  • Neolithic Sculpture and its Cultural Significance
  • Paleolithic Venus Figurines: Representations of Fertility and Power
  • Rock Art Across Different Prehistoric Cultures
  • Megalithic Monuments: Exploring the Purpose and Construction Techniques
  • Shamanistic Art: Unveiling the Spiritual Beliefs of Early Humans
  • Artistic Expressions in Ice Age Cultures
  • Portable Art of the Paleolithic Era: A Window into Ancient Lifestyles
  • The Role of Animals in Prehistoric Art
  • Decorative Motifs in Prehistoric Pottery

Ancient Egyptian Art

  • Symbolism in Egyptian Funerary Art and Architecture
  • The Role of Pharaohs in Shaping Egyptian Art and Culture
  • The Amarna Revolution: Artistic Expression under Akhenaten
  • Artistic Techniques in Egyptian Wall Paintings and Reliefs
  • The Influence of Ancient Egyptian Art on Later Civilizations
  • The Temple Complexes of Ancient Egypt: Sacred Spaces and Rituals
  • Egyptian Tomb Paintings: Depicting the Afterlife Journey
  • Hieroglyphs and the Art of Writing in Ancient Egypt
  • The Role of Women in Egyptian Art and Society
  • Religious Iconography in Ancient Egyptian Art

Ancient Greek Art

  • The Evolution of Greek Sculpture: From Archaic to Classical
  • Athenian Vase Painting: Themes, Styles, and Significance
  • Greek Temples and Architectural Innovations
  • Alexander the Great and Hellenistic Art: Blending Cultures
  • The Parthenon Marbles: Controversies and Repatriation Debates
  • Mythology in Greek Art: Gods, Heroes, and Legends
  • Greek Pottery: Form, Function, and Decoration
  • Greek Theater and its Visual Representations
  • Olympic Games in Ancient Greek Art
  • Portraits of Rulers and Statesmen in Ancient Greece

Roman Art and Architecture

  • Roman Portraiture: Capturing Identity and Power
  • The Colosseum: Function, Design, and Entertainment
  • Roman Wall Paintings: Exploring Domestic Art
  • The Pantheon: Engineering Marvel and Religious Symbolism
  • Roman Mosaics: A Reflection of Society and Culture
  • Roman Imperial Sculpture: Ideals of Power and Authority
  • Roman Frescoes and their Themes
  • Roman Triumphal Arches: Commemorating Victories
  • Roman Coinage and its Depiction of Emperors and Deities
  • The Influence of Etruscan Art on Roman Civilization

Ancient Mesopotamian Art

  • Mesopotamian Cylinder Seals: Significance and Iconography
  • The Ishtar Gate: A Symbol of Babylonian Power
  • Sumerian Ziggurats: Architecture and Religious Beliefs
  • Assyrian Palace Reliefs: Depictions of Conquest and Royal Life
  • The Code of Hammurabi Stele: Legal System and Visual Representation
  • Mesopotamian Jewelry and Adornment
  • The Epic of Gilgamesh in Art and Sculpture
  • Mesopotamian Clay Tablets: Cuneiform Writing and Record-Keeping
  • Babylonian Astronomical Instruments and their Depiction in Art
  • Mesopotamian Influence on Ancient Near Eastern Art

Ancient Asian Art

  • Buddhist Art in Ancient India: Symbolism and Iconography
  • Chinese Calligraphy: Script as an Art Form
  • Japanese Woodblock Prints: Beauty and Narrative
  • The Terracotta Army: Commemorating Emperor Qin Shi Huang
  • Gandhara Art: Fusion of Greek and Indian Influences
  • Silk Road Art and Cultural Exchange
  • The Art of Tea in East Asia: Ceramics, Utensils, and Rituals
  • The Zen Garden: Artistic Expression and Spiritual Contemplation
  • Hindu Temples and their Architectural Features
  • Korean Celadon Pottery: Techniques and Aesthetics

Ancient African Art

  • Nok Terracottas: Early Nigerian Artistic Expressions
  • Egyptian Influence on Nubian Art and Architecture
  • Great Zimbabwe: Architecture and Cultural Significance
  • Ife Bronze Heads: Portraits of Royalty and Divinity
  • African Masks: Rituals, Symbolism, and Performance
  • Rock Art of the Sahara: Depicting Ancient Life and Beliefs
  • Benin Bronzes: Courtly Art and Royal Power
  • Sahelian Architecture: Mud Brick Structures and Design
  • Dogon Sculpture: Ancestral Spirits and Cosmic Order
  • Ethiopian Christian Art: Illuminated Manuscripts and Iconography

Pre-Columbian Art of the Americas

  • Mayan Glyphs and Hieroglyphic Writing: Decoding Ancient Texts
  • Aztec Temples and Sacred Spaces
  • Inca Metalwork: Techniques and Cultural Significance
  • Olmec Colossal Heads: Mystery and Meaning
  • Native American Rock Art: Communication and Spiritual Practices
  • Chavin de Huantar: Architecture and Rituals in Ancient Peru
  • Nazca Lines: Geoglyphs and Astronomical Alignments
  • Moche Pottery: Figurines and Narrative Scenes
  • Maya Murals: Religious and Historical Narratives
  • Inca Textiles: Weaving Techniques and Symbolism

Byzantine Art and Iconography

  • The Hagia Sophia: Architecture and Religious Symbolism
  • Iconoclasm and the Shifting Role of Religious Images
  • Byzantine Mosaics: Glorious Decoration and Spiritual Expression
  • The Byzantine Influence on Russian Iconography
  • The Empress Theodora: Power and Patronage in Byzantine Art
  • Illuminated Manuscripts in Byzantium
  • Byzantine Ivory Carvings: Religious and Secular Themes
  • The Byzantine Iconostasis: Artistic Elements and Liturgical Function
  • The Byzantine Cross: Symbolism and Variations
  • Early Christian Symbols in Byzantine Art

Early Christian Art

  • Catacomb Paintings: Early Christian Devotion and Symbolism
  • The Basilica of San Vitale: Byzantine Influence in Ravenna
  • Early Christian Mosaics: Expressions of Faith and Worship
  • Early Christian Manuscripts: Scriptural Illustrations and Decoration
  • Christian Iconography in Roman Catacombs
  • Christian Pilgrimage Art: Relics, Shrines, and Devotion
  • The Cult of Saints in Early Christian Art
  • Early Christian Basilicas: Architecture and Liturgy
  • The Book of Kells: Illuminated Manuscript from Early Medieval Ireland
  • Early Christian Sarcophagi: Representations of Salvation and Resurrection

This comprehensive list of ancient art history research paper topics offers students studying art history a wide range of fascinating and engaging subjects to explore. Whether focusing on specific civilizations or broader themes, these topics provide ample opportunities for research, analysis, and the appreciation of the rich artistic traditions of the ancient world. Delve into the captivating realm of ancient art history and unlock the secrets of our cultural heritage through these intriguing research paper topics.

Ancient Art History: Exploring the Range of Research Paper Topics

Ancient art history is a captivating field that allows us to delve into the artistic traditions and cultural expressions of past civilizations. From the dawn of human creativity in prehistoric times to the remarkable achievements of ancient Egypt, Greece, Rome, and beyond, studying ancient art provides us with valuable insights into the beliefs, aesthetics, and societal contexts of these ancient cultures. In this section, we will explore the diverse range of research paper topics in ancient art history, highlighting the breadth and depth of this fascinating field.

Ancient art encompasses various time periods, regions, and artistic styles, offering a rich tapestry of human creativity and cultural heritage. It provides us with a window into the past, shedding light on the values, ideologies, and social structures of ancient societies. Whether you are interested in the grandeur of Egyptian pyramids, the refined sculptures of ancient Greece, the monumental architecture of Rome, or the intricate craftsmanship of ancient China, there is a wide array of research paper topics to explore within the realm of ancient art history.

  • Prehistoric Art : The origins of art can be traced back to prehistoric times when our ancestors expressed their creativity through cave paintings, rock art, and small figurines. Research paper topics in prehistoric art could delve into the techniques used, the symbolism behind the artworks, the role of art in prehistoric societies, and the cultural significance of these ancient expressions.
  • Egyptian Art : The art of ancient Egypt is renowned for its monumental architecture, striking sculptures, and elaborate burial rituals. Topics in Egyptian art could explore the symbolism and religious beliefs reflected in tomb paintings, the techniques employed in sculpting statues of pharaohs, the evolution of artistic styles over different dynasties, and the social and political functions of art in ancient Egypt.
  • Mesopotamian Art : Mesopotamia, known as the cradle of civilization, boasts a rich artistic heritage. Topics in Mesopotamian art might delve into the symbolism and religious beliefs conveyed through monumental ziggurats, the intricate details of cylinder seals, the royal reliefs adorning palace walls, and the role of art in communicating power and authority in ancient Mesopotamian societies.
  • Greek Art : Ancient Greece was a cradle of artistic achievement, with its sculptures, architecture, and pottery serving as enduring legacies. Research paper topics in Greek art might focus on the idealized representations of the human form in classical sculpture, the influence of mythology on Greek vase painting, the architectural wonders of the Acropolis, and the significance of art in shaping Greek identity and civic life.
  • Roman Art : The Romans built upon the artistic traditions of the Greeks and created their own unique contributions to the art world. Topics in Roman art could explore the realistic portraiture that adorned public spaces, the engineering marvels of Roman architecture such as the Colosseum and aqueducts, the narrative scenes depicted in wall paintings in Pompeii, and the role of art in propaganda and the projection of imperial power.
  • Ancient Near Eastern Art : The ancient Near East encompasses a diverse range of cultures, including Sumerians, Babylonians, Assyrians, and Persians. Research paper topics in ancient Near Eastern art might examine the iconic Ishtar Gate of Babylon, the divine symbolism in Assyrian relief sculptures, the development of cuneiform writing and its influence on art, and the connections between art, religion, and politics in the ancient Near East.
  • Indus Valley Art : The Indus Valley Civilization flourished in ancient South Asia and left behind a rich artistic legacy. Research paper topics in Indus Valley art could explore the significance of the iconic Dancing Girl sculpture, the intricacies of the seal script, the representation of animals in the art of the region, and the cultural and religious contexts of Indus Valley artworks.
  • Chinese Art : China has a long and illustrious artistic tradition spanning thousands of years. Topics in Chinese art could include the symbolism and spirituality of traditional Chinese painting, the intricate craftsmanship of porcelain and jade, the significance of Buddhist sculptures in the ancient Silk Road trade, and the role of art in representing imperial power and social status in ancient China.
  • Celtic Art : The art of the ancient Celts is characterized by intricate metalwork, stone carvings, and vibrant designs. Research paper topics in Celtic art might explore the symbolism of Celtic knotwork, the cultural and religious significance of Celtic artifacts, the stylistic variations across different regions and time periods, and the interactions between Celtic art and other ancient artistic traditions.
  • African Art : The art of ancient Africa is characterized by its diversity, creativity, and cultural significance. Research paper topics in African art might focus on the spiritual symbolism of masks and sculptures, the aesthetics of body adornment and textiles, the representation of power and authority in royal art, and the cultural exchange and influence between different regions and civilizations in ancient Africa.

The study of ancient art history allows us to explore the rich cultural heritage and artistic achievements of past civilizations. By examining the diverse range of research paper topics in ancient art history, students can gain a deeper understanding of the artistic techniques, cultural contexts, and social functions of art in different ancient societies. From prehistoric cave paintings to the monumental sculptures of ancient Egypt, the refined pottery of ancient Greece, and the intricate artworks of ancient China, the world of ancient art history offers a captivating journey into the past. By conducting research and writing papers on these topics, students can contribute to the ongoing exploration and appreciation of ancient art and its significance in shaping human history.

Choosing Ancient Art History Research Paper Topics

Selecting the right research paper topic in ancient art history is crucial to the success of your project. It allows you to explore an area of interest, contribute to the existing scholarship, and showcase your analytical and research skills. In this section, we will provide you with expert advice on how to choose compelling and engaging ancient art history research paper topics that will captivate your readers and demonstrate your expertise in the field.

  • Define Your Interests : Begin by reflecting on your personal interests within the realm of ancient art history. Consider the time periods, cultures, artistic styles, or specific artworks that intrigue you the most. Are you fascinated by the enigmatic beauty of Egyptian hieroglyphs? Or perhaps you have a passion for the classical sculptures of ancient Greece? Identifying your areas of interest will help narrow down potential research paper topics.
  • Explore Uncharted Territory : While it’s important to study well-established topics in ancient art history, there is also value in exploring lesser-known or understudied areas. Look for gaps in the existing literature or unexplored aspects of ancient art that pique your curiosity. By choosing a unique and original research topic, you can make a valuable contribution to the field and generate fresh insights.
  • Consider Cross-Cultural Connections : Ancient art was not created in isolation but often influenced by interactions and exchanges between different cultures. Consider exploring the cross-cultural connections and artistic influences between ancient civilizations. For example, you could investigate the influence of Egyptian art on Minoan frescoes or the impact of Hellenistic art on the Gandharan sculptures of ancient India.
  • Analyze Artistic Techniques and Materials : Artistic techniques and materials used in ancient art offer a wealth of research possibilities. You can delve into the methods of sculpting, painting, pottery-making, or metalworking employed by ancient artists. Explore how technological advancements or regional resources influenced artistic production and the evolution of artistic styles.
  • Investigate Social and Cultural Contexts : Art is a reflection of the society and culture in which it was created. Choose research paper topics that allow you to delve into the social, political, religious, or economic contexts of ancient art. For example, you could explore the role of art in ancient burial practices, the depiction of power and authority in royal artworks, or the symbolism of religious motifs in ancient artistic traditions.
  • Study Iconography and Symbolism : Ancient art is often rich in symbolism and iconography, conveying deeper meanings and cultural significance. Analyze the symbols, motifs, and visual language used in ancient artworks and their connections to religious, mythological, or social contexts. Investigate the messages and narratives embedded within the visual representations to gain a deeper understanding of ancient cultures.
  • Examine Restoration and Conservation Efforts : Restoration and conservation play a vital role in preserving ancient artworks for future generations. Research topics could focus on the techniques and challenges involved in restoring ancient murals, sculptures, or architectural elements. Explore how modern conservation practices have evolved over time and their impact on our understanding and appreciation of ancient art.
  • Investigate Art and Identity : Ancient art provides insights into the formation of individual and collective identities. Choose research paper topics that examine the representation of gender, ethnicity, or social status in ancient art. Explore how artists depicted diverse identities, challenged societal norms, or reinforced cultural hierarchies through their artworks.
  • Explore the Intersection of Art and Politics : Art and politics often intersect in powerful ways. Investigate the role of art in political propaganda, cultural diplomacy, or the projection of power in ancient civilizations. Examine how rulers used art to legitimize their authority, promote specific ideologies, or communicate with their subjects.
  • Embrace Interdisciplinary Approaches : Ancient art history is a multidisciplinary field that can benefit from interdisciplinary approaches. Consider integrating insights from archaeology, anthropology, history, or other related disciplines into your research paper. This interdisciplinary approach can provide a broader understanding of ancient art and enrich your analysis.

Choosing the right research paper topic in ancient art history requires careful consideration and exploration of your interests, the existing scholarship, and the broader cultural and historical contexts. By defining your areas of interest, exploring uncharted territory, considering cross-cultural connections, analyzing artistic techniques and materials, investigating social and cultural contexts, studying iconography and symbolism, examining restoration and conservation efforts, investigating art and identity, exploring the intersection of art and politics, and embracing interdisciplinary approaches, you can find a captivating and meaningful research topic. Remember to select a topic that not only engages you but also contributes to the scholarly discourse and demonstrates your expertise in the fascinating world of ancient art history.

How to Write an Ancient Art History Research Paper

Writing a research paper in ancient art history requires careful planning, diligent research, and effective organization. In this section, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to write a compelling and well-structured ancient art history research paper that showcases your knowledge and analytical skills.

  • Understand the Assignment : Before you begin writing, thoroughly understand the requirements and guidelines of your research paper assignment. Clarify any uncertainties with your instructor to ensure you are on the right track. Pay attention to the formatting style, word count, and specific research parameters.
  • Conduct In-Depth Research : Gather relevant and reliable sources to support your research paper. Consult scholarly books, academic journals, museum catalogs, and reputable online databases. Take comprehensive notes, highlighting key arguments, supporting evidence, and relevant quotations. Ensure that you use a combination of primary and secondary sources to provide a well-rounded analysis.
  • Develop a Strong Thesis Statement : Craft a clear and concise thesis statement that encapsulates the main argument or research question of your paper. Your thesis should be specific, debatable, and supported by evidence from your research. It sets the foundation for your entire paper and guides the direction of your analysis.
  • Organize Your Research : Create an outline to organize your research and structure your paper. Divide your paper into logical sections, such as introduction, literature review, methodology, analysis, and conclusion. Within each section, outline the main points and supporting evidence that you will discuss.
  • Introduction : In your introduction, provide background information on the topic and context of your research. Present the significance of your research question and explain why it is relevant to the field of ancient art history. Finally, end your introduction with a clear thesis statement that outlines the main argument or objective of your research paper.
  • Literature Review : In the literature review section, critically analyze and synthesize the existing scholarship on your chosen topic. Identify the main theories, arguments, and debates within the field of ancient art history related to your research question. Evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of previous studies and highlight the gaps in the literature that your research aims to address.
  • Methodology : If applicable, describe the research methodology and approach you will use in your study. Explain the sources you have used, such as archaeological findings, textual analysis, or visual analysis. Justify your chosen methodology and discuss any limitations or challenges you may encounter.
  • Analysis : Present your analysis and interpretation of the evidence gathered from your research. Use a combination of visual examples, textual references, and scholarly arguments to support your analysis. Be clear and concise in your explanations and provide sufficient evidence to back up your claims.
  • Use Visuals : Ancient art is primarily visual, so it is essential to include relevant images, illustrations, or diagrams to support your analysis. Ensure that you provide proper captions and citations for all visuals used in your research paper.
  • Conclusion : In your conclusion, summarize the main points of your research and restate your thesis statement. Reflect on the significance of your findings and their implications for the field of ancient art history. Discuss any limitations or areas for further research. Leave your readers with a thought-provoking final statement that encourages them to contemplate the broader implications of your research.
  • Citations and References : Properly cite all the sources used in your research paper using the appropriate citation style (such as APA, MLA, or Chicago). Create a bibliography or reference list that includes all the sources consulted. Ensure that you follow the formatting guidelines for your chosen citation style accurately.
  • Revise and Edit : After completing your initial draft, take the time to revise and edit your research paper. Check for clarity, coherence, and logical flow of ideas. Ensure that your arguments are supported by evidence and that your writing is free of grammatical and spelling errors. Seek feedback from peers or professors to gain different perspectives on your work.
  • Proofread : Before submitting your research paper, thoroughly proofread it to eliminate any lingering errors. Pay attention to grammar, punctuation, spelling, and formatting. Ensure that your paper adheres to the required formatting style and meets all the guidelines set by your instructor.

Writing an ancient art history research paper requires meticulous planning, in-depth research, and effective organization. By following the steps outlined above, you can develop a compelling and well-structured research paper that demonstrates your knowledge and analytical skills in the field of ancient art history. Remember to carefully analyze your sources, develop a strong thesis statement, present a clear and coherent argument, and support your analysis with relevant evidence. With dedication and attention to detail, you can create an exceptional research paper that contributes to the ongoing scholarly discourse in the field of ancient art history.

iResearchNet’s Writing Services

At iResearchNet, we understand the challenges that students face when it comes to writing ancient art history research papers. We recognize the importance of in-depth research, critical analysis, and effective writing skills required to produce a high-quality paper. That’s why we offer our professional writing services to provide you with the support and expertise you need to excel in your academic journey. Let us be your trusted partner in crafting outstanding ancient art history research papers.

  • Expert Degree-Holding Writers : Our team of writers consists of experts with advanced degrees in art history and related fields. They possess a deep understanding of ancient art history and have extensive experience in conducting research and writing academic papers. With their expertise, you can be confident that your research paper will be in capable hands.
  • Custom Written Works : We believe in delivering custom-written research papers that meet your unique requirements. Our writers carefully analyze your instructions and tailor their approach to address the specific objectives and guidelines of your assignment. Each paper is crafted from scratch, ensuring originality and authenticity.
  • In-Depth Research : Research is at the core of any successful ancient art history paper. Our writers are skilled in conducting thorough and comprehensive research using reputable scholarly sources, museum catalogs, archaeological findings, and other relevant materials. They delve into the depths of ancient art history to gather the most current and accurate information for your research paper.
  • Custom Formatting : Proper formatting is crucial for an academic research paper. Whether your institution requires APA, MLA, Chicago/Turabian, or Harvard style, our writers are well-versed in all major formatting guidelines. They will ensure that your paper adheres to the specified style, including proper citations, references, and formatting of headings, margins, and spacing.
  • Top Quality : We are committed to delivering top-quality research papers that meet the highest academic standards. Our writers pay meticulous attention to detail, ensuring accurate information, logical organization, coherent arguments, and impeccable language. Your paper will showcase your knowledge and understanding of ancient art history in a professional and polished manner.
  • Customized Solutions : Every research paper is unique, and we understand that your specific research topic may require a tailored approach. Our writers take the time to understand your research objectives, provide personalized guidance, and develop a research paper that aligns with your academic goals. We value your input and ensure that your voice shines through in the final product.
  • Flexible Pricing : We offer flexible pricing options to accommodate students with varying budgets. We understand the financial constraints students often face, and we strive to provide affordable services without compromising on quality. Our pricing is transparent, with no hidden fees or extra charges. You can select the pricing package that suits your needs and budget.
  • Short Deadlines : We recognize that students often face tight deadlines and last-minute assignments. Our writing services are designed to meet your urgent needs. Whether you have a few hours or a few days to submit your research paper, our efficient writers can deliver high-quality work within the specified timeframe.
  • Timely Delivery : Punctuality is of utmost importance to us. We understand the significance of submitting your research paper on time to meet academic deadlines. Our writers work diligently to ensure that your paper is completed and delivered to you within the agreed-upon timeframe. You can rely on us to meet your submission deadlines.
  • 24/7 Support : Our customer support team is available 24/7 to address any questions, concerns, or inquiries you may have. Whether you need assistance with placing an order, tracking your paper’s progress, or communicating with your assigned writer, our dedicated support team is here to provide prompt and helpful responses.
  • Absolute Privacy : We prioritize your privacy and confidentiality. All personal information and communication shared with us remain strictly confidential. We utilize secure encryption technology to protect your data and ensure that your identity is never compromised.
  • Easy Order Tracking : We have implemented a user-friendly platform that allows you to easily track the progress of your order. You can stay updated on the status of your research paper, communicate with your writer, and upload any additional materials or instructions conveniently.
  • Money-Back Guarantee : We are confident in the quality of our services, and we stand behind our work. If, for any reason, you are not satisfied with the final research paper delivered to you, we offer a money-back guarantee. Your satisfaction is our utmost priority, and we are committed to ensuring your academic success.

When it comes to crafting exceptional ancient art history research papers, iResearchNet is your trusted partner. Our team of expert writers, in-depth research capabilities, custom formatting, and commitment to top-quality work ensure that you receive a well-crafted and academically rigorous research paper. With our flexible pricing, timely delivery, 24/7 support, and absolute privacy, you can confidently entrust your ancient art history research paper to us. Unleash your potential with iResearchNet’s writing services and take your academic journey to new heights. Place your order today and experience the excellence of our services.

Unleash Your Potential with iResearchNet

Are you struggling to write your ancient art history research paper? Don’t let the stress and challenges hinder your academic success. iResearchNet is here to provide you with the professional assistance you need to excel in your studies. Our dedicated team of experienced writers and comprehensive writing services are tailored to meet your unique requirements and ensure the highest quality of work. Take the leap and unleash your potential with iResearchNet’s ancient art history writing services.

Don’t let the challenges of writing an ancient art history research paper hinder your academic success. With iResearchNet’s professional writing services, you can unleash your potential and elevate your academic journey. Our team of expert writers, customized solutions, impeccable quality, timely delivery, and dedicated support ensure that you receive the assistance you need to excel in your studies. Place your order today and experience the convenience, reliability, and excellence of iResearchNet’s ancient art history writing services. Let us be your trusted partner in achieving academic success.

ORDER HIGH QUALITY CUSTOM PAPER

art history research paper topics 20th century

IMAGES

  1. Art History Research Paper Topics

    art history research paper topics 20th century

  2. 🐈 Us history research paper topics ideas. History Research Paper Topics: Interesting and

    art history research paper topics 20th century

  3. Art History Research Paper Topics: Example List

    art history research paper topics 20th century

  4. 60+ Art History Research Paper Topics: Exclusive Ideas and Free Samples

    art history research paper topics 20th century

  5. 60+ Art History Research Paper Topics: Exclusive Ideas and Free Samples

    art history research paper topics 20th century

  6. Art history research paper. Art History Research Paper Examples. 2022-10-09

    art history research paper topics 20th century

VIDEO

  1. History Research Papers: Structure and Components

  2. 12th Annual SVAD Art History Symposium

  3. How Do I Write a History Research Paper?

  4. Ever wonder why people become art historians? We asked colleagues, what do you study and why?

  5. Overview of the Research Paper Process

  6. List of Easy US History Research Paper Topics

COMMENTS

  1. 20th Century History Research Paper Topics

    War and Conflict: The 20th century was marked by significant wars and conflicts that shaped the course of history. Research paper topics within this category may include the First and Second World Wars, the Cold War, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, the Gulf War, the Rwandan genocide, the Falklands War, the Iraq War, the War in Afghanistan, and ...

  2. Art History Research Paper Topics

    100 Art History Research Paper Topics. Art history, as a field of study, covers thousands of years and countless cultures, offering an expansive array of topics for research papers. When embarking on an art history project, you can focus on certain eras, explore individual artists or art movements, investigate the role of art in specific ...

  3. Top Art History Research Paper Topics For An Excellent Essay

    Art History Research Paper Topics: 20th Century. The 20th century was incredibly dynamic and had lots of important events that changed the world of art. The World Wars, the fast development of technologies, and space exploration had a significant impact on the minds of artists. The Main Trends In Art In The 20th Century

  4. 10 Art History Papers: Topics for Inspiration

    Mark Rothko's Orange, Red, Yellow. Cate Gillon / Getty Images. Research a particular movement of art, such as Color Field Painting, which was practiced by the Abstract Expressionist family of artists.. Like Action Painting, the Color Field artists treat the surface of a canvas or paper as a "field" of vision, without a central focus, and emphasize the flatness of the surface.

  5. JSTOR: Viewing Subject: Art & Art History

    Occasional Paper (Garden History Society) 1969 - 1970 Quarterly Newsletter (Garden History Society) ... Germanic Museum Bulletin 1935 - 1940 Gesta 1963 - 2018 Getty Research Journal 2009 - 2024 Grey Room 2000 - 2018 ... Black Africa and the US Art World in the Early 20th Century: Aesthetics, White Supremacy 2024

  6. Art History Thesis Topics: 315 Enticing Ideas

    Art History Thesis Topics Based on Impressionism. Impressionism was a significant movement in the 19th century. This style gave birth to the artistic style of capturing the moment, feeling, or experience, especially in its changing effects of light and color. Check out these excellent art history paper topics and pick the best one.

  7. 250+ Research Paper Topics for Art Lovers

    31 Architecture Research Paper Topics. 32 Theater Research Paper Ideas. 33 The Study of Photography as Research about Art. 34 Artist Biography Ideas. 34.1 Art Topics Ideas Base on the Artists of the 18th Century. 34.2 Artists of the 19th Century. Art has been a significant aspect of human civilization for centuries.

  8. Research Guides: History of Art & Architecture: Articles & More

    Contains abstracts of journal articles, books, essays, exhibition catalogs, dissertations, and exhibition reviews. The scope extends from artists and movements beginning with Impressionism in the late 19th century, up to the most recent works and trends in the late 20th century. Photography is covered from its invention in 1839 to the present.

  9. 150+ Captivating Art Research Paper Topics Ideas

    Most Interesting Art History Research Paper Topics. Art history teaches you to analyze the visual and textual evidence in various artworks to understand how different artists saw the world and expressed their emotions. Here are some of the most exciting topics. Artistic Freedom vs. Censorship: Art in Nazi Germany.

  10. Art History Research Paper Topics: Just Dali It!

    Art history research paper topics: 18th century. The 18th century was a time of glorious musicians and elegant architecture. Learn more about the Baroque style, Neoclassicism, and the Viennese School with our topics. ... Art history research paper topics: 20th century. In the 20th century, the world went crazy: wars, revolutions, demonstrations ...

  11. Women, Art, and Art History: Gender and Feminist Analyses

    Introduction. Following a worldwide feminist movement in the later 20th century, women became a renewed topic for art and art history, giving rise to gender analysis of both artistic production and art historical discourse. Gender is to be understood as a system of power, named initially patriarchal and also theorized as a phallocentric ...

  12. LibGuides: JSTOR Subjects and Collections: Art & Art History

    JSTOR and Artstor. JSTOR contains both scholarly journal and ebook collections on art and art history topics, as well as the Artstor image library. Artstor features millions of high-quality images and media from some of the world's top photo archives, museums, libraries, scholars, and artists, including rare materials not available anywhere else.

  13. Modern Art History Research at Home

    MoMA Archives Image Database (MAID) MAID contains about 50,000 items digitized from our Archives: letters, ephemera, photos of artists and other art-world personalities, historical views of the Museum building and Sculpture Garden, and more. You can search MAID by keyword or browse by date range. MoMA through Time.

  14. A Critical History of 20th-Century Art

    In the '20s, Hofmann opened the first school of modern art in Munich, moving it to New York in 1932, where it had great influence. The avant-garde had become a school of thought, and had a school to propagate its ideas. It had in effect become academic, indeed, the official art of the establishment, the way classical art once had been.

  15. History Research Paper Topics

    There are numerous history research paper topics you can choose from. This page is dedicated to providing students studying history with a comprehensive collect ... By delving into subjects such as 20th century history, American history, art history, ancient history, British history, European history, Renaissance history, African history, Asian ...

  16. History Thesis Topics: List of 69 Outstanding Ideas

    🎨 Art History Thesis Topics. ... Analyze the subject via comics, journals, and visual art in the first part of the 20th century. Impact of Otto von Bismarck on German Liberalism; Source: Britannica.com. ... A master's thesis is a long research paper. Let's see the main characteristics of a bachelor's thesis, a master's thesis, an ...

  17. Best 110 History Research Raper Topics for Students

    8 20th Century History Research Paper Topics. 9 Modern History Research Paper Topics. 10 French Revolution Topics. 11 European History Research Paper Topics. 12 US History Research Paper Topics. 13 Art History Research Paper Topics. 14 Conclusion. One of the biggest challenges is just how many research topics for students there are. There are ...

  18. A List of Unique Art Research Paper Topics

    Visual Art Research Topics. Painting as pedagogy. Sculpture in the modern age. The creative works of popular artists. Aesthetics of painting: a study of an artist's creations. A comparison of style of different artists. Trends in photography in different generations. Impact of technology on visual art.

  19. 20th-Century Art: A Resource for Educators

    Some General Thoughts about 20th-century Art for Discussion. Works in the Museum's Collection. Entries. Pablo Picasso, Gertrude Stein. Pablo Picasso, Still Life with Pipes. Henri Matisse, Nasturtiums with "Dance. Wassily Kandinsky, The Garden of Love ( Improvisation Number 27) Giorgio de Chirico, Ariadne. Marsden Hartley, Portrait of a German ...

  20. Top Art Research Paper Topic for All Students

    The 20th-century ideas for art research paper topics are multiple and diverse due to the emergence of artistic movements and global changes. You can tell a lot in an art research paper about Abstract Expressionism, Cubism, Pop Art, Fauvism, Minimalism, Futurism, Dada, Surrealism, Conceptual Art, and Photorealism.

  21. Best History Research Paper Topics

    Get 10% OFF with 24START discount code. Ancient History Topics. The Causes and Effects of the Fall of the Roman Empire. Daily Life in Ancient Egypt. The Influence of Alexander the Great's Conquests on the Hellenistic World. The Role of Women in Spartan Society.

  22. 100+ History Research Paper Topics to Write About

    Explain the strengths and weaknesses of the Fourteenth Amendment. Explain American history before 1877. Labor unions, conflicts, and strikes in the 1800s. The British rule in the Americas and the first British settlements. United States foreign policy in the early 19th century.

  23. What a Southern Plantation's Paper Trail Can Reveal about the Lasting

    Mary Snyder studied the 20th-century archives of Louisiana's Whitney Plantation and the lives of its workers, who, while free, were still tied to the land. ... Building on a decade of research performed by Whitney's executive director, Ashley Rogers, Snyder's 12-week internship involved cataloging 52 boxes of documents that, in the future ...

  24. Ancient Art History Research Paper Topics

    The field of ancient art history, encompassing a vast spectrum of civilizations and epochs, offers countless areas of exploration. We have prepared an extensive list of 100 research paper topics, meticulously categorized into ten sections, each reflecting a specific region or era in ancient art history. Expert advice on selecting relevant ...