In the 3rd and 4th centuries a new religion took hold of late antique society. But unlike so many other oriental cults, it was going to have a lasting impact on European culture. Constantine I caused a reversal of fortune for what started as a small Judean religious movement. In this course the influence of Christianity on material and immaterial culture of the Late Roman Empire is sketched, illustrated by examples from north Africa, the Near East and Italy; from the first illegal house-churches to monumental buildings and mosaics that had to underline the position of the Christina emperors as representatives of God on earth.
Learning objectives
To obtain an overview of the cultures in the Mediterranean and Northwestern European area during the transition period from late antiquitiy to early christianity;
Insight into the influence of the new religion on these civilisations;
Insight into the ways in which traditional cultural elements continued to exist, changed or ceased to exist under influence of christianity.
Method of instruction
Lecture.
Examination
Test.