Module 1: Roots of Animation
1.2 Brief History of Animation
When you watch a full length 3-D animated adventure like Toy Story, it's difficult to believe that it is based on theories and principles that have been around for centuries.
Animation would not be possible without Aristotle's observations, dating back to 340 B.C., on the principles of light and motion aftereffects. It wasn't until 130 A.D. that a Greek astronomer, known as Ptolemy, discovered persistence of vision. In 180 A.D., an unknown Chinese inventor created an early animation device that later became known as the zoetrope. These are just a few of the significant events that shaped the history of animation. Refer to the timeline below to explore other important historical events.
Figure 1.2 History of Animation Timeline
© The Minneapolis Institute of the Arts. Reprinted by permission.
Click on the box above to begin, then roll your cursor over each of the dates
on the timeline above to learn more about the history of animation.
How do you know when it is appropriate to use animation? Present an example of appropriate and inappropriate use of animation and provide an explanation to support each of your comments.
Click on "Things to Consider..." to hear commentary.
