Wednesday, February 29, 2012

Podcast #5: The Book: The Codex and the Illuminated Manuscript | 1st century AD

Post an example of a scroll.
What were the drawbacks of the scroll?
-the only allowed the reader to read the text in the order it was written



Post an example of a codex.
What is a codex?
-covered and bound collection of handwritten pages

"Codex" is derived from the Latin meaning "block of wood". Why?
-because it is made from all wood

What is the difference between "sequential access" and "random access"?
-
sequential access means one must go through the whole scroll to find information, rather than turning to any point

What were the advantages of using the codex?
-one could go to any point in the book to find information (random access)
-more portable

What helped spread the use of the codex?
-the rise of christianity

What replaced papyrus? Describe the process used to create it?
-parchment paper; substrate made from animal skin such as sheep, goats, and cows

What is vellum?
-finer qualities of parchment which were made from skins of young calves

Name several examples of current technology that utilizes the format of the codex?
-digital books such as the kindle and the Ipad

What led to a period of cultural and economical deterioration?
-the decline of the roman empire











Post an example of an illuminated manuscript.

Who began creating books by hand, taking the creation to an art form?
-monks

What does "illumination" refer to? What was included in this ornamentation?
-the borders, illustrations, and ornamentation added to each page of text
-initials of chapters and paragraphs, paintings of borders and around text



What tool was used for creating the illuminated manuscripts?
-natural quill pens made from plucking turkeys

Why were these manuscripts reserved for religious purposes?
-because the work was laborious illuminated


What is craftsmanship? Why is it important?
-skill in an occupation or trade

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