This easily accessible volume; which grew out of a series of lectures presented at the Smithsonian Institution in 1991; aims to provide a coherent introduction to Byzantine culture with a focus on the interconnected realms of art and religion. The eight participants have revised their lectures into chapters on Byzantine history; theology; icons and icon theory; church architecture; monumental painting; silver church furnishings; illustrated liturgical books; and pilgrimage. In addition to presenting current research on this range of topics; the chapters each contribute original scholarship from authors who are recognized experts in their respective fields. The Introduction; by Linda Safran; deals with views and definitions of Byzantium over the course of its long history and considers why that civilization deserves our attention today. It underscores the essential unifying role of the Orthodox religion in a vast and fluid empire and clarifies how the experiential aspects of that religion—churches; liturgy; church arts and imagery; religious travel—open a window into Byzantine culture. Throughout the book; the past is made vivid by considering what Byzantine believers heard and said and did; as well as what they saw. The book's chapters are cross-referenced and are complemented both by endnotes that cite primary and secondary sources and by "Suggestions for Further Reading" that include English and foreign-language references. There is no comparable art history text that combines this high-caliber range of current scholarship with more than 250 illustrations; including 16 pages of color plates; to introduce Byzantine culture to a broad readership.Contributors are Joseph Alchermes; Susan A. Boyd; Anna Kartsonis; Henry Maguire; Robert Ousterhout; Eric D. Perl; Nancy Patterson Å evÄenko; and Gary Vikan.
#178690 in Books 2000-01-15Original language:EnglishPDF # 1 8.50 x 1.10 x 5.50l; 1.33 #File Name: 0268010382360 pages
Review
1 of 1 people found the following review helpful. Five StarsBy Reyac410Very pleased with order.2 of 2 people found the following review helpful. Detailed account of a literally incredible lifeBy PandamanThis book shows the personality; character and wit of a man who has done more than most people can even fathom to accomplish in their lifetime. The prose style is engaging and refreshing; and he truly knows his stuff. Got to meet him recently to talk about his book...he really cares about people and the world.1 of 1 people found the following review helpful. wonderful stories; without rancor or many detailsBy rkcNice autobiography from Father Ted. Intterestng read. Devoid of any controversy or rancor; just as one might expect from such a fine servant leader. Good stories throughout; yet devoid of many details about the real work of building and leading this great univrrsity through an incredible period in our nation's history.
