The Selfie from Caravaggio to the Present

Harvard Extension School

STAR E-155

Section 1

CRN 26993

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The digital selfie is ubiquitous. But what constitutes the lure of reproducing one's image through technical media in the first place? This course examines histories and theories of self-imaging media, tracing how widespread concepts of selfhood have shifted over time alongside—and in relation to—the development of specific media technologies, especially paintings, daguerreotypes, snapshots, cinema, video, and digital media. By analyzing broad tends and case studies of specific artists, filmmakers, and theorists, we ultimately consider the historical context and develop the conceptual skills needed to scrutinize ethical problems and potentials posed by selfies in the present.

Registration Closes: January 22, 2026
Credits: 4

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Term

Spring Term 2026

Part of Term

Full Term

Format

Live Attendance Web Conference

Credit Status

Graduate, Noncredit, Undergraduate

Section Status

Open

Instructor Info

Nathan David Roberts, PhD


Meeting Info

W 6:00pm - 8:00pm (1/26 - 5/16)

Participation Option: Online Synchronous

Deadlines

Last day to register: January 22, 2026

Notes

This course meets via web conference. Students must attend and participate at the scheduled meeting time. See minimum technology requirements.

Tuition

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All Sections of this Course

CRN Section # Participation Option(s) Instructor Section Status Meets Term Dates
26993 1 Online Synchronous Nathan Roberts Open W 6:00pm - 8:00pm
 Jan 26 to May 16

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