1st Millennium(ish) European - Early Christian

Why is mythology/religion relevant to architecture?

Because religion and mythology influence ornament, hierarchy, and ritual in architecture.

What are the three major ways mythology/religion influences architecture?

Ornament, hierarchy, and ritual.

What does ORNAMENT mean in religious architecture?

Religious/mythic stories are expressed through art and decoration.Examples include frescoes, carvings, and intricate designs that convey symbolic meanings.

Why was ornament especially important in societies where most people were illiterate?

Art and decoration became a primary way of communicating religious understanding.

What does HIERARCHY mean in religious architecture?

Religious stories can be hidden in the conceptual design, while the building's form and geometry communicate meaning through organized levels of space and ornamentation, reflecting the importance of different elements in the spiritual hierarchy.

How can the FORM of a building relate to a religious narrative?

The form can represent an idea such as reaching toward heaven.

What can organizing GEOMETRY represent?

It can relate to social structure or religious symbolism, such as a circle representing sacred perfection.

What does RITUAL refer to in architecture?

The way architecture establishes processional movement through a building.

What is an example of a processional relationship?

A linear procession down a central aisle.

What major religious transformation occurred in the Roman Empire?

Rome became increasingly Christian, leading to the development of Christian architecture.

Who became the principal patron of Christianity after its victory?

Constantine

What was the Edict of Milan?

It granted religious toleration/equality, including to Christians.

When was the Edict of Milan issued?

313 CE

What did Constantine's support of Christianity change?

It transformed the status and nature of Christianity and changed the relationship between Christianity and the Roman Empire

What does “Tetrarchy” mean?

Rule of four

Who re-established the Roman Empire with four capitals?

Diocletian

When did Diocletian establish the Tetrarchy?

285–305 CE

What happened in 312 CE involving Constantine?

Constantine marched on Rome and crossed the Tiber River at the Mulvian Bridge.

Who did Constantine defeat in 324 CE?

Licinius.

What happened after Constantine defeated Licinius?

Constantine became the sole ruler of the empire.

According to the study guide, when did Constantine declare Christianity the official religion of the Roman Empire?

325 CE.

Why did Early Christian architecture place greater emphasis on the interior?

Christianity was a mystery religion requiring initiation, and churches needed large interior spaces for growing congregations

What architectural form became the core of Western Christian architecture?

The Christian basilica.

What did Christian churches need to accommodate?

Large congregations and a clear separation between the faithful and unfaithful.

What are the three things a Christian worship building had to provide?

• A path for processional entry/exit

• An altar area for clergy

• Space for the congregation, separated from clergy

What is the main central space where the congregation sits or stands?

The nave.