The Theology and the Liturgical Use of Icons (DS2105C)

Content

This unit examines the theology expressed in the devotional use of icons and their liturgical use in the Eastern Christian tradition. Emphasis will be given to the sacramental nature of the icon as expressive of the mystery of the Incarnation of Christ and of the holiness of creation redeemed and transfigured in Christ.

The unit explores the origin and meaning of the icon and its development in early Christian art. It considers the Iconoclast Controversy and the key arguments by John Damascene in his incarnational theological defence of icons. The icon as an expression of the theology and faith of the Christian East is examined in the context of the theological interpretation of icons of Christ, particular feasts, Mary the Mother of God and other specific saints. Several of the great works of iconography and Western religious art will be compared.

The unit considers role of icons in the liturgy and personal prayer.

Learning outcomes

Unit sequence

CT101C, CT2201C/3201C are recommended

Pedagogy

Lectures and individual and group learning activities

Indicative Bibliography

• Baggley, J. Doors of Perception. Icons and Their Spiritual Significance. Crestwood, NY: SVS Press, 1988.
• ———. Festival Icons for the Christian Year. Mowbray: SVS Press, 2000.
• Cross, Lawrence. God's Holy Fire: A Theology of the Icon. Melbourne: Freedom Publishing, 2014.
• Evdokimov, P. The Art of the Icon: A Theology of Beauty. Translated by Fr Steven Bigham. Redondo Beach, CA: Oakwood Publications, 1990.
• Hart, A. Techniques of Icon and Wall Painting. Balwyn, Victoria: Freedom Publishing, 2011.
• ———. Beauty. Spirit. Matter. Icons in the Modern World. Balwyn, Victoria: Freedom Publishing, 2014.
• Nes, Solrunn. The Mystical Language of Icons. Grand Rapids, Michigan: William B. Eerdmans Publishing Company, 2009.
• Ouspensky, L. Theology of the Icon. Translated by A. Gythiel with E. Meyendorff. 2 vols. 1978. Reprint. Crestwood, NY: SVS Press, 1992.
• Ouspensky, L., and V. Lossky. The Meaning of Icons. Crestwood, NY: SVS Press, 1982.
• Visel, Jeana. Icons in the Western Church: Towards a More Sacramental Encounter. Collegeville, MN: Liturgical Press, 2016.
• Weitzmann, K. The Icon. London: Chatto & Windus, 1978.

Assessment