THESIS STATEMENT AND OUTLINE
THESIS STATEMENT AND OUTLINE
The Taj Mahal’s visual extravagance is an expression of political domination at the court of Shah Jahan.
FORMAL ANALYSIS
· Multiplicity of shape; pattern
· Color of materials
· Scale of structure
· Play of light and shadow on structure
· Mausoleum within the context of entire planned complex
ICONOGRAPHY
· Related to identity of Nur Jahan
· Visual Complexity – Islamic ideals of spiritual expression
· Geometric perfection as expression of religious belief
· Taj Mahal as connection between heavens and earth
· Iconography of color of materials
ICONOLOGY
· Political structure of the court of Shah Jahan
· Spread of Islam into India
· Courtly marriages and relationships in Mughal Empire
· The Shah as power broker