CHRISTIAN ICONOGRAPHY IN CONTEMPORARY CULTURE (LSRA-2100)

This course is co-taught by Kathryn Barush and Christopher Renz. The purpose of this course is to introduce students to the "language" of Christian symbols and metaphors, especially those that are most essential to the liturgical life of the Church. Students will learn how the early Church understood and used principles from Greek, Roman, and Byzatine culture to create symbols that convey the multifacited dimension of salvation. The use of sacred geometry in art and architecture helped to create a Christian "imagination" that permeated both liturgical and domestic life. These principles will be engaged with contemporary ideas on Catholic worship and culture. The intended audience includes MDiv, MA, STL, STD, and PhD students. The latter may upgrade as needed. A background in early Church history and liturgy is helpful, but not required. [Auditors with faculty permission]