Thursday, March 1, 2012

The Codex and the Illuminated Manuscript | 1st century AD

Post an example of a scroll.

What were the drawbacks of the scroll?
They only allowed for sequential usage. Readers must read the text in the order it was written.
Post an example of a codex.
What is a codex?
It is a covered and bound collection of hand written pages.
"Codex" is derived from the Latin meaning "block of wood". Why?
Because of it's compactness, sturdiness, and ease of reference.
What is the difference between "sequential access" and "random access"?
Random access is when one can go to any point in the book to find information, it can be opened flat to any page, and it is more portable. Sequential access is when one must go through the entire scroll to find a certain passage.
What were the advantages of using the codex?
Random access as opposed to sequential access. It was also easier to organize in libraries because the title could be written on the spine.
What helped spread the use of the codex?
It is believed that the spread of the codex is associated with the rise of Christianity, which adopted the format for the early Bible.
What replaced papyrus? Describe the process used to create it?
Parchment, which is a substrate made from animal skin such as sheep, goats, and cows. Hair and fat were removed and skin was smoothed out. The hide was then soaked in water. Then, calcium, flour, and salt were added. Last, the skin was stretched out, flattened, and dried.
What is vellum?
Finer qualities of parchment that were made from skins of young calves.
Name several examples of current technology that utilizes the format of the codex?
Kindle and Ipad
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?
Illumination refers to the borders, illustrations, and ornamentation added to each page of text. Ornamentations included initials of chapters or paragraphs, paintings in margins, borders, and around text.
What tool was used for creating the illuminated manuscripts?
Natural quill pens were used for the highly intricate and detailed work of the illuminated manuscripts.
Why were these manuscripts reserved for religious purposes?
Because the work was laborious illuminated manuscripts were reserved for religious texts, many Christian masses. 
What is craftsmanship? Why is it important?
Craftsmanship is practicing a traded skill or handicraft.  It is important because some of it still exists today.

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