Early Medieval Europe Self-Check Quiz

In the mid-10th century, the eastern part of the Carolingian empire was consolidated under the rule of which group?

Ottonians

Match each early medieval artwork with the best description of its aesthetic objective. 1. Byzantine Figural Tradition: bearded, mature Christ shown as the suffering martyr hanging heavily on the cross 2. Early Christian Figural Tradition: youthful Christ shown as the triumphant victor over pain standing as if in front of the cross 3. Carolingian Figural Tradition: energetic gesture and anecdotal detail effectively communicate psychological and emotional content 4. Carolingian Classical Tradition: manipulation of scale and choice of attributes and iconography effectively communicate the figure's imperial status

1 "Gero Crucifix (Crucifix commissioned by Archibishop Gero)," Cologne Cathedral, Cologne, 3 "God Accusing Adam and Eve," detail from the left door of Saint Michael's at Hildesheim, Germany 2 "Crucifixion," front cover of the "Lindau Gospels," from Saint Gall, Switzerland 4 "Equestrian Portrait of Charlemagne or Charles

Match each early medieval manuscript illumination with the best description of its aesthetic style. 1. Hiberno-Saxon Style: The subject is conceived in terms of line and color, where drapery folds and depicted as a series of sharp, regularly spaced, curving lines filled with areas of flat color without shading or sense of volume. 2. Carolingian Classical-Revival Style: The subject is created using color as well as modulations of light and shade to define masses of drapery folds wrapping around the body, giving the figure a sense of three-dimensionality and weight. 3. Carolingian Linear Style: The subject is given a sense of frenzied energy through the use of a loose, linear style characterized by numerous thin, writhing lines that seem to have been generated quickly as if the artist were working while in constant motion. 4. Ottonian Syncretic Style: The subject is rendered in a fusion of styles drawing upon Carolingian, Ottonian, Late Antique and Byzantine traditions, demonstrating the stylistic complexity of the art of its time.

1 (Figure 11-8) "Saint Matthew," Folio 25 Verso of the "Lindisfarne Gospels" 4 (Figure 11-31) "Annunciation to the Shepherds" 2 (Figure 11-14) "Saint Matthew," Folio 15 Recto of the "Coronation 3) (Figure 11-15) "Saint Matthew," Folio 18 Verso of the "Ebbo Gospels"

Match each early medieval manuscript illumination with the best description of its aesthetic style. 1. Hiberno-Saxon Style: The subject is conceived in terms of line and color, where drapery folds and depicted as a series of sharp, regularly spaced, curving lines filled with areas of flat color without shading or sense of volume. 2. Carolingian Classical-Revival Style: The subject is created using color as well as modulations of light and shade to define masses of drapery folds wrapping around the body, giving the figure a sense of three-dimensionality and weight. 3. Carolingian Linear Style: The subject is given a sense of frenzied energy through the use of a loose, linear style characterized by numerous thin, writhing lines that seem to have been generated quickly as if the artist were working while in constant motion. 4. Ottonian Syncretic Style: The subject is rendered in a fusion of styles drawing upon Carolingian, Ottonian, Late Antique and Byzantine traditions, demonstrating the stylistic complexity of the art of its time.

2 (Figure 11-14) "Saint Matthew," Folio 15 Recto of the "Coronation Gospels" 1 (Figure 11-8) "Saint Matthew," Folio 25 Verso of the "Lindisfarne Gospels" 3 (Figure 11-15) "Saint Matthew," Folio 18 Verso of the "Ebbo Gospels" 4 (Figure 11-31) "Annunciation to the Shepherds"

Match each early medieval artwork with the cultural period to which it belongs 1. Anglo-Saxon 2. Hiberno-Saxon 3. Carolingian 4. Ottonian

4 "God Accusing Adam and Eve," detail from left door at Saint Michael's, Hildesheim, 1015 2 "Chi-Rho-Iota Page," Folio 34 Recto of the "Book of Kells," late 8th or 9th century 1 Purse Cover from the Sutton Hoo Ship Burial, ca. 625 3__ "Equestrian Portrait," from Metz, France, 9th century

Place each early medieval cultural period in correct order from earliest to latest.

4 Ottonian 3 Carolingian 2 Hiberno-Saxon 1 Anglo-Saxon

Which of the following terms best applies to books created for the private devotions of the laity, which were based on versions used by monks and which contained prayers to be read at specific times of day?

Books of Hours

Why is Charlemagne's Palatine Chapel at Aachen so important for the study of art and architectural history? (Select all that apply)

Charlemagne was renown in his own time for the extravagant interior decoration and other gifts he bestowed upon the structure and its clergy, which served as examples of his great piety. It is the earliest vaulted medieval structure north of the Alps and set a precedent for later architecture in this geographical area. Its architect transformed the complexity and lightness of its likely model, San Vitale in Ravenna, Italy, into a simple, massive form that communicated geometric clarity and robust strength. Its innovative design included two cylindrical towers that foreshadow later medieval dual-tower church facades.

Which of the following statements best explains the stylistic significance of the "Crucifixion" cover of the "Lindau Gospels" (Figure 11-16), shown here, for the study of art history? (Select all that apply)

Christ is depicted in the early Christian tradition as a youthful, triumphant figure who does not hang from the cross but seems to be displayed upon it. The gold and gems not only functioned to communicate the great expense of the object, but also to glorify the word of God and evoke the heavenly realm of Jerusalem. It reflects the continued taste for costly, portable objects that had been a hallmark of early medieval warlords and continued into the Carolingian period. The angels and other crouching figures are depicted in a contemporary linear style that conveys a sense of vivacity and nervous energy.

Because Saint Benedict of Nursia wanted to eliminate sources of corruption in the clergy, he focused his "rules" for life in the monastery only on meditation and austerity.

False

Because they all date to the early medieval period, all manuscript illuminations depicting Saint Michael from this period share the same stylistic characterist

False

Medieval monasteries were not the only repositories for learning because they taught the local lay populations to read and write and contribute in the production of manuscripts that preserved ancient knowledge and literary culture.

False

The "Crucifixion" from the front cover of the "Lindau Gospels" is one of the most powerful characterizations of intense agony of the early Middle Ages.

False

The "Ottonian Renaissance" was a remarkable historical phenomenon in which the art, culture, and political ideas of Early Christian Rome were energetically and brilliantly emulated.

False

The heraldic composition of a man standing between two beasts on the Sutton Hoo purse cover is unique in art history, and cannot be connected to any artworks from the ancient world.

False

In what ways did Charlemagne promote the revival of the Early Christian Roman Empire? (Select all that apply)

He "most zealously cultivated the liberal arts [and] held those who taught them in great esteem." He invited the best minds and finest artisans from western Europe and Byzantium to his court at Aachen. He promoted the development of a new, more compact, more easily written and legible version of Latin as part of his efforts to restore and copy the most important surviving classical texts. He transferred an equestrian portrait of Theodoric from Ravenna to his palace complex at Aachen as a reminder of ancient Rome's glory and his own aspirations as a medieval successor to Rome's Christian emperors.

Which term refers to art of medieval monasteries in Ireland?

Hiberno-Saxon

Which two stylistic traditions are represented on "Man (Symbol of St. Matthew)" page from the "Book of Durrow?"

It combines the Christian pictorial imagery of Italy and Byzantium with the abstraction of northern European early medieval personal adornment.

Which two stylistic traditions are represented on the cover from the "Lindau Gospels," reflecting the stylistic diversity of much early medieval art?

It combines the early Christian pictorial tradition with the linear style of the "Utrecht Psalter."

Which of the following statements accurately describes the "Cross-Inscribed Carpet Page," Folio 26 Verso of the "Lindisfarne Gospels?" (Select all that apply)

It demonstrates the artist's Hiberno-Saxon preference for small, infinitely complex and painstaking designs. It exemplifies the Hiberno-Saxon blending Christian symbolism with the early medieval animal-interlace style.

In what way is the "Man (Symbol of St. Matthew)," Folio 21 Verso of the "Book of Durrow" significant for the study of art history?

It demonstrates the syncretic fusion of the local aesthetic preference for elaborate abstracted decoration with Christian symbolism.

In what way does the "Equestrian Portrait of Charlemagne or Charles the Bald" trace its origins to Roman imperial imagery?

It emulates the model set by the equestrian portrait of Marcus Aurelius and depicts the emperor holding a globe, symbol of world dominion.

Which of the following is the most significant way in which the three-aisled basilica plan for the Monastery of Saint gall differed from all of its early Christian prototypes?

It had a second apse on the west end.

Why is the "Schematic plan for a monastery" from Saint Gall in Switzerland so significant? (Select all that apply)

Its inclusion of a transept was a rare feature at the time but would become crucial for the subsequent development of western European church architecture in the Romanesque and Gothic periods. It demonstrates the adoption of the Early Christian basilica type for the main church that was crucial for the subsequent development of western European church architecture in the Romanesque and Gothic periods. It demonstrates a modular design in which a standard unit of measure is used in the calculation of every component in the plan, from the dimensions of large architectural spaces down to the sizes of each monk's bed. It demonstrates the importance of the cloister to monastic life, placed at the center near the oratory, to serve as a kind of early paradise where monks could enjoy the peace and quiet necessary for religious contemplation.

Which of the following statements best describes the stylistic approach used by the symbol of Saint Matthew from the "Book of Durrow," which shows a frontal head, profile feet, and cloak and frame resembling contemporary cloisonné metalwork?

Its style blended the abstraction of early medieval personal adornment with early Christian and Byzantine pictorial imagery.

How does the iconography of the manuscript illumination "Otto III Enthroned," Folio 24 of the "Gospel Book of Otto III" communicate Otto's imperial authority? (Select all that apply)

Otto III is shown enthroned in a frontal pose and wearing a purple robe in the Christian imperial manner that began with Constantine. Otto III is shown flanked by clergy and barons to symbolize his authority over both Church and State affairs. Otto III is shown wearing a crown and holding a scepter and cross-inscribed orb, all of which signified his universal authority.

What is the significance of the decision to combine Old Testament scenes from the story of Genesis, such as "God Accusing Adam and Eve," with New Testament scenes of the Life of Christ on the doors of Saint Michael's church at Hildesheim, Germany?

Ottonian clergy interpreted Hebrew scripture as prefiguring the New Testament, so together, the doors can be understood to tell the story of original sin and ultimate redemption through Christ.

What was the rule developed in the 6th century for governing the daily life of monks living in the monastery?

Regula Sancti Benedicti

Which is the best translation of the phrase "Renovatio Imperii Romani" from Charlemagne's official seal?

Renewal of the Roman Empire

Which church's plan provided the model for Charlemagne's palace chapel at Aachen?

San Vitale in Ravenna, Italy

In the image of "Otto III Enthroned," what visual details conform to Christian imperial iconographic tradition and signify his universal authority?

Scepter and orb

How can art historians interpret the fact that two silver spoons found as part of the Sutton Hoo ship burial in Suffolk, England had been inscribed with the names of St. Paul before and after his baptism ("Saulos" and "Paulos")?

That the owner or occupant of the burial had also converted to Christianity.

One of the most significant functions of illuminated manuscripts in the early medieval period was their use in the Christianization of the local populations of the British Islands.

True

Which stylistic tradition is represented by the figure of Jesus in the "Gero Crucifix" from Cologne Cathedral in Germany?

The Byzantine tradition of a mature, suffering Christ

Which stylistic tradition is represented by the figure of Jesus in the "Crucifixion" on the book cover of the "Lindau Gospels" from Saint Gall in Switzerland?

The Early Christian tradition of a youthful, triumphant Christ

Which Carolingian architectural plan demonstrated the beginnings of the modular system that would later become so important?

The Monastery of Saint Gall

How does the manuscript illumination "Annunciation to the Shepherds," folio in the "Lectionary of Henry II" from Richenau, Germany exemplify the diversity of styles in Ottonian art? (Select all that apply)

The angel is depicted with fluttering wings and wind-rippled drapery in the linear manner of Carolingian art. The sheep and shepherds are scattered across a simplified landscape in the Late Antique manner. The background is painted in solid gold to suggest the otherworldly realm of heaven in the Byzantine manner. The shepherds exhibit startled gestures in the Carolingian-Ottonian tradition of using anecdotal detail to communicate information.

By what visual evidence can art historians surmise that the artist of the "Saint Matthew" page from the "Lindisfarne Gospels" had access to a classically-inspired model, perhaps imported from Italy? (Select all that apply)

The artist used a peculiar combination of Greek and Latin forms in the inscription naming the saint. Saint Matthew's seat is shown at an angle in a manner common for Mediterranean forms of perspective. Saint Matthew sits in a manner similar to classical representations of seated philosophers or poets shown writing or reading.

Which of the following statements supports the assertion that the author-portrait of Saint Matthew from the "Lindisfarne Gospels" shows classical influences?

The figure is seated in the manner of an ancient philosopher or poet reading or writing.

Why are the bronze doors made for St. Michael's at Hildesheim, Germany, including the panel of "God Accusing Adam and Eve," so important for the study of art history? (Select all that apply)

The iconography combined Old and New Testament scenes in order to present a unified theme of original sin and redemption through Christ. The doors are technological marvels because the metalworkers cast each one in a single piece with its figural sculpture, in great contrast to the more typical, small-scale Carolingian sculpture types. In the scene depicting "God Accusing Adam and Eve," the artist demonstrates a brilliant ability to clearly communicate psychological and emotional intensity using a relatively simple combination of high relief figures and a comparatively flat background. The composition on many of the relief panels derive from Carolingian manuscript illumination and its energetic and expressive figural st

How did early medieval Christian monks use illuminated manuscripts to impress the illiterate Christian population?

They made the words as visually beautiful as possible.

What was the fundamental purpose of the "Schematic plan for a monastery" from Saint Gall in Switzerland?

To separate the monks from the laity who also inhabited the community

Art historians better understand the marvelous effect that early medieval manuscripts had on their viewers from contemporary sources like descriptions written by travelers who remark about the "colors so fresh and vivid that you might say that all this was the work of an angel."

True

Art historians know about the Anglo-Saxon cultural practice of burying great heroes with prestige items such as rings and brooches as a testament to their greatness because of passages in the contemporary epic of "Beowulf."

True

Art historians know that the primary audience for the great bronze doors on Saint Michael's at Hildesheim, including the panel of "God Accusing Adam and Eve," were the monks of the monastery because the doors were installed on the entrance to t

True

Christian monasteries were centrally important to the revival of learning during Charlemagne's reign.

True

Early medieval European art is characterized, in part, by the great variety of aesthetic styles that could draw upon any combination of classical, Late Antique, Byzantine, or native northern traditions

True

Early medieval interest in animal-based interlace patterns was so strong that artists imitated the color effects of jewelry designs in the painted decoration of manuscripts.

True

Early medieval manuscripts produced at northern monasteries were designed to dazzle the recently converted members of the congregation with their sheer beauty as precious objects.

True

In order to eliminate sources of corruption in the clergy, Saint Benedict emphasized on work and study in his "rules" for monastic living, raising manual labor to the dignity of religion as a way to achieve self-sufficiency.

True

In the early Middle Ages, interest in freestanding statuary was first revived in the Ottonian period.

True

Of all the Ottonian rulers, Otto III was the most fervent in his desire to revive the power of ancient Rome in a new Christian Empire.

True

One of the most notable developments of the Carolingian period is the construction and expansion of many monasteries, which were responsible for the preservation and dissemination of ancient knowledge via the manuscripts produced in their scriptoria.

True

Rather than emulate the classical emphasis on volume and shading, the Hiberno-Saxon artist responsible for the "Saint Matthew" figure from the "Lindisfarne Gospels" conceived the subject exclusively in terms of line and color, using sharp, regularly spaced lines filled with areas of flat color to denote the saint's body parts and posture.

True

The "Book of Kells" is commonly considered the greatest of the extant early Medieval Irish manuscripts.

True

The "Book of Kells" was called "the chief relic of the western world" by a medieval commentator and was, in fact, stored in an elaborate metalwork box like a true holy relic.

True

The "Carolingian Renaissance" was a remarkable historical phenomenon in which the art, culture, and political ideas of Early Christian Rome were energetically and brilliantly emulated.

True

The Sutton Hoo burial epitomizes the early medieval tradition of burying great lords with rich grave furnishings.

True

The fibula was the most typical object of prestige adornments in the medieval period.

True

The ideal monastery described by the Rule of St. Benedict included all the facilities necessary for the conduct of daily life as well as the "work" of God, so that the monks would feel no need tow after outside its protective walls.

True

The model used by the artist of the "Saint Matthew" page in the Lindisfarne Gospels was probably an illustrated Gospel book that had been imported from Italy.

True

The ultimate model for equestrian portraits such as the one of Theodoric brought back to Germany by Charlemagne and the one made for a Carolingian ruler was the equestrian statue of Marcus Aurelius still visible in Rome during the medieval period.

True

While elaborate intertwining linear patterns are characteristic of many different period and cultural styles, the particular combination of interlace and animal figures was rare outside the realm of the early medieval warlords.

True

With which of the following contemporary artworks does the "Saint Matthew" page from the "Ebbo Gospels" most closely resemble?

Utrecht Psalter"

Match each early medieval artwork with the cultural period to which it belongs. 1. Anglo-Saxon 2. Hiberno-Saxon 3. Carolingian 4. Ottonian

_4__ "God Accusing Adam and Eve," detail from left door at Saint Michael's, Hildesheim, 1 Purse Cover from the Sutton Hoo Ship Burial, ca. 625 3 "Equestrian Portrait," from Metz, France, 9th century 2 "Chi-Rho-Iota Page," Folio 34 Recto of the "Book of Kells," late 8th or 9th century