Art Conservation and Restoration: History, Theory, and Practice
Conservation and Restoration Unit 5 Cesare Brandi (notional restoration in Italy). Real art worthy of being preserved and restored to be evidence of cultural values, to be transmitted to future generations
1. The Restoration of Cultural Property: Origin and Evolution of a Concept
Each generation changes its meaning, value, and perception of property from the past. This influences the conservation of works, potentially altering their valuation through additions, deletions, or changes in use. Additionally,
Read MoreSt. Thomas Aquinas: Historical and Philosophical Context
St. Thomas Aquinas: Historical Context
Late Middle Ages: Socio-Political Transformation
St. Thomas Aquinas lived during the late Middle Ages, a period of significant change in Europe following the relative stagnation of the Early Middle Ages. This era witnessed agricultural advancements, leading to population growth and subsequent crises like famine, pestilence, and war. Politically, the once-unified Christian world saw a weakening of the Emperor and Pope’s authority, exemplified by conflicts like
Read MoreSt. Augustine’s Philosophy: Faith, Reason, and Human Existence
Reason and Faith
For Augustine, humans yearn for happiness and the enjoyment of the highest good, which he identified with God. This requires knowing the truth, sought through reason (philosophy) and faith (religion). These are not incompatible; faith guides our search, and reason helps us understand faith: “He understands to believe, believe and understand.”
Theory of Knowledge
Augustine’s theory posits that our truth-seeking is driven by love. Good love (charity) prioritizes God and others, creating
Read MoreAugustine of Hippo: Faith, Reason, and the Love of God
The Interplay of Faith and Reason
Two Realities United
Faith illuminates reason, and reason elevates faith. Augustine of Hippo, throughout his philosophical endeavors, argued that faith is best understood through intelligence. For the Christian, faith and reason are distinct yet intimately bound realities. Revealed truth complements philosophical truth, together forming a complete and full understanding.
The Pursuit of Truth
The most important measure is arriving at truth, whether by faith or reason.
Read MoreUnderstanding Forgiveness: A Religious Education Unit
1. Timing
This Didactic Unit will be held in two sessions in mid-course, around the end of February or early March.
2. Aim
A. Curricular Component
Learning Objectives
- Further define the concept of God as a Father always ready to forgive.
- Reflect on the attitude of forgiveness towards others, as a result of God’s forgiveness and mercy.
- Understand the meaning of the sacrament of Reconciliation.
- Assess the importance of repentance and the ability to forgive others.
Communication Competencies
Language
- Understand
Romanesque Architecture: Churches, Monasteries, and Pilgrimage Sites
Romanesque Architecture: Temples, Pilgrimage Churches, and Monasteries
Introduction: After the artistic fragmentation following the crisis of the Roman Empire, the Romanesque style developed during the eleventh and twelfth centuries. It was the first international style of Western culture, a Christian artistic expression of a culturally united Europe. Romanesque art reproduced forms from various origins: Rome (arches, vaults, symmetry), Byzantium (dome systems, drums, scallops, iconographic repertoire)
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