What period does Unit 4 of the AP Art History exam primarily cover?

Unit 4 of the AP Art History exam primarily covers the period from the Renaissance through the 17th century, which includes significant developments in art and culture between the late 14th century and the 17th century. This time frame encompasses profound transitions in artistic styles, philosophies, and techniques, as artists began to emphasize humanism, perspective, and individual expression.

This period is marked by iconic works from artists such as Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Caravaggio, reflecting a deeper engagement with classical themes and a new approach to the depiction of the human figure and nature. The Renaissance also led into Mannerism, which further developed the complexities of artistic expression in the later 16th century.

In contrast, the other options refer to different historical contexts. The 18th through the 19th century represents movements like the Enlightenment and Romanticism, which are examined in later units, while the early 20th century focuses on movements such as Modernism and Postmodernism. The Medieval Period, which precedes the Renaissance, is characterized by different artistic and cultural priorities, such as Gothic and Romanesque art. Therefore, the chronological span defined in the correct answer aligns with the major themes and artists that are emphasized