Discover the visual world of Greek mythology and learn how the Olympian gods can be identified in works of art through their symbols, attributes, and mythological narratives. The course Understanding the Greek Gods Iconography in Art offers an accessible introduction to the representation of Greek deities in Western artistic tradition.
At the beginning of the course Understanding the Greek Gods Iconography in Art participants will explore the principal written and visual sources that allow us to understand Greek mythology and the iconography of the Olympian gods. Learners will become familiar with foundational ancient texts such as the Theogony by Hesiod and the epic poems attributed to Homer, which describe the origins, genealogies, and myths of the gods.
Through a concise and engaging approach, participants will explore the origins of the Greek gods, their principal myths, and the visual language artists used to represent them in paintings, sculptures, ceramics, and decorative arts. Special attention is given to the symbols and attributes that allow the identification of Greek Gods Iconography as well as to the revival of classical mythology in European art from the 16th century onward.
This course is ideal for anyone wishing to better understand mythological imagery in museums, historical collections, cultural heritage, and art history.
Language: English.
Understanding the Greek Gods Iconography in Art
The course price includes:
- lifetime 24/7 access
- Evaluation (1 final quiz)
- Certificate.
Learning objectives – Understanding the Greek Gods Iconography in Art
- Introduce the principal gods of Greek mythology and their myths.
- Understand the basic concepts of iconography and mythological symbolism.
- Learn to identify Greek gods iconography through their visual attributes and symbols.
- Explore artistic representations of mythological subjects in Western art.
- Understand the influence of classical mythology on Renaissance and later European art.
- Develop visual interpretation skills for artworks featuring mythological themes.
Who should take this certified online course?
This course is intended for:
- Art history and heritage enthusiasts.
- Students of humanities, archaeology, history, and visual arts.
- Museum visitors and cultural travelers interested in mythology.
- Artists, illustrators, and creatives seeking inspiration from classical themes.
- Anyone wishing to better understand Greek Gods Iconography in art.
There are no access requirements
Certificate
A training certificate will be issued at the end of the course. Find out more.
We are a training organisation certified by DGERT – Training Organisation Certificate No. 1800/2015 – meaning that the certificate is valid internationally.
How it works
Course structure – Greek Gods Iconography in Art
1 – The Theogony: The Creation of the World in Ancient Greece
This module introduces the origins of the cosmos according to ancient Greek mythology, focusing on the Theogony attributed to Hesiod. Participants will discover how the Greeks explained the birth of the universe, the primordial forces of nature, and the genealogy of the gods.
1.1 Theogony by Hesiod
1.2 Who was Hesiod?
1.3 Homer and the Epic Poem
1.4 The Importance of the Scriptures
2 – Worship and Artistic Representations in Ancient Greece
You will learn the principal symbols, objects, animals, and visual attributes associated with each Olympian god. This knowledge is essential for the interpretation of mythological subjects in artworks, heritage collections, and museum contexts.
2.1 The Pantheon of Gods
3 – The 16th Century and the Return to Classicism
This module examines how artists and patrons rediscovered ancient Greek culture and adapted mythological themes to Renaissance ideals of beauty, humanism, and harmony.
3.1. The Return to the Classical Ideal
3.2 Practical example
Do I need previous knowledge of Greek mythology?
No. The course is designed as an introductory overview and is suitable for beginners.
Is the course focused on art or mythology?
The course combines both subjects, focusing on Greek gods iconography and how they are represented and identified in art.
Will I learn how to recognize the Olympian gods in paintings and sculptures?
Yes. The course introduces the main symbols and attributes associated with the Greek gods iconography helping participants identify them in artworks.
Is the course suitable for non-specialists?
Absolutely. The content is presented in a clear and accessible way for participants without academic background in art history or mythology.
Why is iconography important in art history?
Iconography helps us understand the meaning, symbolism, and identity of figures represented in artworks, allowing a deeper interpretation of artistic and cultural heritage.
