Carolingian and Ottonian Art and Architecture
In this module, we’ll learn about the Emperor Charlemagne (ca. 800 CE) and his unifying of Western Europe, creating the so-called “Holy Roman Empire” and thereby achieving stability in the region for the first time since Roman rule. We will also learn about the Ottonian Emperors, who succeed Charlemagne and, in the Post-Millennium era (Year 1000 CE), will sponsor the construction of many massive churches, built in the “Romanesque” style. Read: In the Gardner text (or equivalent), read the following pages: pp. Carolingian Art, pp. 161-169; Ottonian Art, pp. 166-169. https://docs.google.com/document/d/1BJFsKRsg3yR17Cvrol6AfYypW0JCFBuojfIE0hyvKz0/edit?usp=sharing Required Viewing: “Charlemagne and the Carolingian Revival.” The folks at Khan academy do an excellent job (mostly) of producing accessible, clear and content-rich videos. They are efficient and, well, short, too! https://www.khanacademy.org/humanities/medieval-world/carolingian-ottonian/carolingian1/v/charlemagne-and-the-carolingian-revival (Links to an external site.) Recommended Viewing: “Skill Share: Charlemagne, The Father of Europe.” NOTE: This video, highly informational and relatively short (ca. 21 minutes), is fast (too fast?) and filled with lots of information that doesn’t directly relate to the art history of the period. I DO recommend you start at the 14:20 minute section, “Carolingian Renaissance.” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J34_Qog2O8k&feature=youtu.be ASSIGNMENT: Carolingian and Ottonian Art and Architecture Respond to the 3 prompts, below: 1. Distinguish between the Palatine Chapel at Aachen and St. Michaels in Hildesheim. In what ways are they similar? How are they different? 2. Bishop Bernward commissioned several large works for placement in his church, including a pair of bronze doors. What narrative (story) is represented, here? Describe the content and how it is represented. 3. Charlemagne is described as the “Father of Europe.” What does this mean?
