We will explore the socio-cultural foundation of nineteenth-century art from the intellectual revolution in late eighteenth-century Europe. The main topics are Impressionism and Symbolism, through specific investigations on various artists or artistic groups. We plan to reconsider the relationship of art and society by exploring issues of modernity, from the renovation of the Paris city and its contemporary art movements to the decorative arts of the fin-de-siecle, and encourage students to share their thoughts on art works and theories. We will also introduce studies on illustrated books and visual culture, within the context of democratization of art and mass culture.