The relation of the Arts to Theology in Medieval Christianity: An Introduction

 

In many ways, the Middle Ages was the era of art and beauty. Some of the greatest works of literature were written during this era. Indeed, Chaucer, Dante, and Thomas Malory left timeless classics that have been read and enjoyed for generations. Likewise, even today, the architecture from the Romanesque and Gothic eras still intrigues those in western society. The influence of art, however, went far beyond literature. No doubt, even many theologians appreciated its value. 

Hugh of St. Victor (11th-12th centuries) was a canon in the Catholic Church. Influenced by Saint Augustine of Hippo, he saw value in both philosophy and art. An important scholastic of the Middle Ages, he also believed that both the arts and philosophy can support theology. No doubt, his views were not rare. Medieval art reflected theological values through architecture, illuminated manuscripts, and Medieval stained glass windows. Certainly, I will discuss his views more soon. Additionally, I hope to discuss my love of illuminated manuscripts in future posts. 

As I have been taking a course in Medieval Art through Liberty University's programs, I have felt more inspired towards the study of the Crusades and the western Middle Ages than I have in years. For me, reading about the illuminated manuscripts, the frescoes of Byzantine art, and the architecture of the Islamic world, has continued to build my understanding of the Medieval experience. Indeed, the Bamberg Psalter reflects the Christian values of its era by its depiction of Judas betraying Jesus as described in the Biblical accounts. Likewise, reading about how the Eucharist was a central component of early Christianity has revised some of my earlier criticism of mainstream Evangelical Christianity---which has put the focus more on the preacher's performance behind the pulpit, than on the Body and Blood of Christ. 

I wish to discuss the relationship between Christianity and Medieval Art in my next posts. I have much to talk about. 

''God is the ultimate artist and we have the ability to make crafts of His workmanship. ''

-Joshua Dotson