Western Orthodoxy Analysis

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Pages: 3

Author
Who created the source? What do you know about the author? What is the author’s point of view?
This painting was created by an artist in Constantinople (now Istanbul) that worshiped Eastern Orthodoxy Christianity. The author’s point of view would mostly come from a place of respect for the subject he is painting, God. Unlike Western Orthodoxy, which emphasized the suffering and humility of God, this piece portrays the power and might of God. Similarly, emperors and tsars would be portrayed to hold this type of almighty power, following the principles of Eastern Orthodoxy.

Place and Time
Where and when was the source produced? How might this affect the meaning of the source?
This image was produced in 12th century Constantinople, found in the Church of Chora. This affects the meaning of the source by putting it in a religious context. During the 12th century, the Byzantine Empire was officially practicing Eastern Orthodoxy, as established by the events of the Schism of 1054. The split of Eastern and Western Orthodoxy resulted in the different ways God is reviewed. In Western Orthodoxy, God is revered as the supreme and almighty power, even above officials. In Eastern Orthodoxy, government officials and God work together
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Beyond the information about the author and the context of its creation, I know some context about the time period to help we further understand the source. One of the things that would help me better understand the source is the type of artwork this is. During the rule of the Byzantine empire, a type of art became very popular: Icon painting. Icon paintings are religious that display holy figures, such as God or a saint. This particular piece of art would be considered an icon painting. Icon painting is a type of artwork that persists even today.