The Codex and the Illuminated Manuscript | 1st century AD

Post an example of a scroll.

What were the drawbacks of the scroll?
They only allowed for sequential usage.  Readers must read the text in the order it was written.

Post an example of a codex.

What is a codex?
A codex is a covered and bound collection of hand written pages.
"Codex" is derived from the Latin meaning "block of wood". Why?
It consisted of many pages to make it into one.
What is the difference between "sequential access" and "random access"?
"Sequential access" means one must go through the scroll to find a certain passage.  "Random access" means one can go to any point to find information.
What were the advantages of using the codex?
The advantages of using the codex was compactness, sturdiness, and ease of reference.  It also had "random access" instead of "sequential access", it could be opened flat to any page, and it was more portable.  It was even easier to organize in libraries because the title could be written on the spine.
What helped spread the use of the codex?
It is believed that the spread of the codex is associated with the rise of Cristianity.
What replaced papyrus? Describe the process used to create it?
Parchment replaced papyrus.  Parchment was a substrate made from animal skin such as sheep, goats, and cows.  Hair and fat were removed and the skin was smoothed out.  The hide was soaked in water.  Calcium, flour, and salt were added.  The skin was stretched out, flattened, and dried.
What is vellum?
Vellum was a finer quality of parchment made from skins of young calves.
Name several examples of current technology that utilizes the format of the codex?
The Kindle and the iPad utilizes the format of the codex.
What led to a period of cultural and economical deterioration?
The Dark Ages was a period of cultural and economical deterioration which started with the decline of the Roman Empire.
Post an example of an illuminated manuscript.

Who began creating books by hand, taking the creation to an art form?
Scribes began creating books by hand.
What does "illumination" refer to? What was included in this ornamentation?
"Ilumination" refers to the borders, illustrations, and ornamentations added to each page of text.  Ornamentation included initials of chapters or paragraphs and paintings in margins, borders, and around text.
What tool was used for creating the illuminated manuscripts?
Natural quil pens were used for the highly intricate and detailed work.
Why were these manuscripts reserved for religious purposes?
These manuscripts were reserved for religious purposes because the work was laborious and illuminated.
What is craftsmanship? Why is it important?
Craftsmanship is the quality of design and work shown in something made by hand.  Some illuminated manuscripts still exist today because of the materials used and the craftsmanship.