Tuesday, March 13, 2012

The Codex and the Illuminated Manuscript | 1st century AD


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Post an example of a scroll:


What were the drawbacks of the scroll? The reader must read the text in the order it was written and they are too cumbersome for lengthy words.














 Post an example of a codex:


What is a codex? A covered and bound collection of hand written pages, a book.
"Codex" is derived from the Latin meaning "block of wood".Why? Because the covers were made of wood.

What is the difference between "sequential access" and "random access"? Random access- one can go to any point to find information. S
equential access- must be read in order; one must go through the scroll to find a certain passage.

What were the advantages of using the codex? Compactness, sturdiness, and ease of reference; more portable; can be opened to any page; easier to organize because title could be written on the spine.
What helped spread the use of the codex? The rise of Christianity
What replaced papyrus? Describe the process used to create it? Parchment, the fat was removed from animal skin, the hide was soaked in water, calcium flour and salt were added, the skin was stretched out, flattened and dried.
What is vellum? Finer qualities of parchment made from skin of calves.
Name several examples of current technology that utilizes the format of the codex? Kindle, Ipad, digital books.
What led to a period of cultural and economical deterioration? The decline of the Roman Empire resulted in fewer books being created. 

Post an example of an illuminated manuscript.



Who began creating books by hand, taking the creation to an art form? Monastic monks.
What does "illumination" refer to? What was included in this ornamentation? Illustrations and ornamentation add to each page of text; initials of chapters or paragraphs, paintings in margins, and borders around the text.
What tool was used for creating the illuminated manuscripts? Natural guill pens.
Why were these manuscripts reserved for religious purposes? The work required so much labor.
What is craftsmanship? Why is it important? The ability of making something from your ideas by yourself, it is important so you can show that are skilled at what you do.



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