Poganski motivi u ranokršćanskoj umjetnosti katakomba

Manhard, Antonio. (2018). Poganski motivi u ranokršćanskoj umjetnosti katakomba. Diploma Thesis. Filozofski fakultet u Zagrebu, Department of Archaeology. [mentor Kaić, Iva].

Preview

PDF (Croatian) Download (16MB) | Preview

Abstract

Because of a lack of developed iconography and a fear of prosecution, early day Christians use simple symbols and current popular pagan motifs of the time in their funerary art. Pagan mythological characters gain a new and deeper meaning when put into a Christian setting. The image of the Good Shepherd in the style of Orpheus becomes a symbol of Christ, the Christian Good Shepherd. Sol Invictus, the unbeatable sun that symbolizes the god Helium becomes a reference to Christ, the savior of the world who conquered death itself. Odysseus and his long and dangerous journey back home becomes an allegory for the Church and its troublesome beginnings. The orans motif, an ancient symbol of prayer, when put into a Christian setting, becomes a symbol of piety and representation of a soul in Heaven. Widespread symbols in the Roman world, such as the fish or banquet scenes, find parallels in biblical stories and therefore naturally fit into Christian art without a need for change.

Actions (login required)

View Item