Byzantium

We have been watching ENGINEERING AN EMPIRE GREEK BYZANTIUM. Today's class left off just as PART 5 was starting. Finish watching part 5 and turn in your video reflections on Tuesday 10-25-11. It's just over 8 minutes long.http://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gif

We remember the ETRUSCANS for their use of TERRACOTTA, the ROMANS for their STONE MOSAICS and the BYZANTINES for their beautiful, reflective, GLASS MOSAICS.

The use of a gold background in which the other colored glass were placed created not only a DECORATIVE effect inside a church but also the signature http://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gifFORMAL, FLAT, FRONTAL AND FLOATING. The placement of the pieces of glass created an outline around the figures, thus creating a FLAT appearance.

Byzantine rulers saw themselves as representatives (vicars) of Jesus Christ. They believed their will was God's will. They reigned supreme...think of a Pope + Ceasar combination.

Sam Houston University has a History of the Byzantine Empire to 1095 available to view online if you wish more detailed political information.