The Codex and the Illuminated Manuscript | 1st century AD

What were the drawbacks of the scroll?

They only allowed for sequential usage so that readers had to read the text in the order that it was written

What is a codex?

Covered and bound collection of hand written pages

"Codex" is derived from the Latin meaning "block of wood". Why?

It was like a block split into tablets for writing on

What is the difference between "sequential access" and "random access"?

Sequential access someone must go through the scroll to find a certain passage and Random access someone can go to any point to find information

What were the advantages of using the codex?

They could use random access to find something in the text, and the Codex could also be opened flat to any page; also more portable and was easier to organize in libraries because the title could be written on the spine

What helped spread the use of the codex?

Its format was adopted for the early Bible

What replaced papyrus? Describe the process used to create it?

Parchment replaced papyrus; substrate made from animal skin; hair and fat removed and skin was smoothed out, the hide was then soaked in water, calcium, flour, and salt were added, the skin was stretched out, flattened, and finally dried

What is vellum?

Animal skin that was prepared to be written on

Name several examples of current technology that utilizes the format of the codex?

Bibles, dictionaries, Harry Potter, other large-bound books

What led to a period of cultural and economical deterioration?

The decline of the Roman Empire, resulting in fewer books being created

Who began creating books by hand, taking the creation to an art form?

Monastic monks

What does "illumination" refer to? What was included in this ornamentation?
Illumination refers to the borders, illustrations, and ornamentation added to each page of text

What tool was used for creating the illuminated manuscripts?

Animal skins and natural quill pens

Why were these manuscripts reserved for religious purposes?

The work was too laborious for a more common use

What is craftsmanship? Why is it important?

The quality at which something is created, and it is important because it makes things appealing to the eye and easier to understand