THEA 180
Introduction to World Cinema (GE)
1. Catalog Entry
THEA 180
Introduction to World Cinema (GE)
Credit hours (3)
A survey course designed to introduce students to important films, concepts, movements,
and trends. Through readings, film screenings, and discussion, students analyze cultural
perspectives affecting the content and aesthetics of cinema.
Note(s): General Education and Humanistic or Artistic Expression designated course.
2. Detailed Description of Course
World Cinema combines a film history course with an art and culture course. Beginning
with the late 19th Century, students then examine important 20th Century styles and
movements. Various international contributions to the art form constitute a major
component of the course. THEA 180 also explores the influence of Hollywood at various
periods. Students focus on the manner in which culture, history, conflict, and availability
of resources has affected the form and function of film. Primarily a cinematic studies
course, additional topics include basic film terminology and techniques.
3. Detailed Description of Conduct of Course
Class discussion and participation, readings, film screenings, quizzes, tests, presentations,
group work, and written work will explore the following areas of cinematic endeavor:
1) Early Cinema: birth, German Expressionism, European Cinema, and the Rise of
Hollywood
2) Capitalism, Censorship, and Cultural influences in Cinema
3) Cinematic Genre and Form
4) Global cinematic approaches (i.e. Italian, French, Japanese, German, African,
Asian, and Australian)
4. Goals and Objectives of the Course
Core Curriculum Goal 8 Student Learning Outcomes
Radford University students will identify and evaluate ways in which the visual and
performing arts reflect and communicate aspects of the human experience.
Radford University students will:
1) evaluate works of art in terms of the medium's distinctive language and terminology;
2) identify the relationship between works of art and specific historical, cultural,
and social contexts.
Core Curriculum Goal 11
Radford University students will understand how social and cultural (for example,
political, historical, economic, environmental, religious, or geographic) forces shape
experiences in the global setting.
Radford University students will be able to:
1) Identify how different perspectives shape human life around the world.
2) Recognize social and cultural forces that affect relationships between cultures
in the world.
5. Assessment Measures
Graded assignments include quizzes, tests, presentations, class participation/discussion,
and written work.
6. Other Course Information
This course is available in traditional, online, and compressed formats.
Review and Approval
September 2005
June 20, 2015
March 01, 2021