Second iconoclasm

Definition

The second iconoclasm refers to a period of intense conflict and debate regarding the use of religious images in Byzantine Christianity, which lasted from approximately 814 to 842 CE. This movement arose during the reigns of several Byzantine emperors who promoted anti-iconic sentiments, leading to the destruction of icons and significant shifts in artistic practices. The second iconoclasm not only shaped the visual culture of the Byzantine Empire but also had profound effects on religious and political dynamics within the church and society.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The second iconoclasm was instigated by Emperor Leo V, who sought to reinforce orthodoxy through the rejection of icons and images in worship.
2. During this period, many churches were stripped of their decorative artworks, and icons were destroyed or defaced in an effort to suppress veneration practices.
3. Opposition to iconoclasm grew over time, leading to a resurgence in support for icons and a eventual return to icon veneration after the death of Leo V.
4. The second iconoclasm ended under Empress Theodora, who restored icons to their rightful place in religious practice in 843 CE.
5. The aftermath of the second iconoclasm had lasting effects on Byzantine art, leading to an era marked by rich iconography and elaborate religious decoration.

Review Questions

• How did the second iconoclasm influence the development of Byzantine art during its duration?
  • The second iconoclasm had a significant impact on Byzantine art as it led to the destruction and removal of religious imagery in churches. Artists faced restrictions on producing icons and other forms of religious art, which stifled creativity and innovation in this period. However, after the restoration of icons following this movement, there was a revival that emphasized rich iconography and elaborate decorations, greatly enriching Byzantine art moving forward.
• Discuss the political motivations behind the second iconoclasm and how they interacted with religious beliefs.
  • The second iconoclasm was heavily influenced by political motivations as emperors like Leo V sought to consolidate power and align with certain factions within the church. By promoting anti-iconic sentiments, these leaders aimed to unify their rule under a single interpretation of Christian orthodoxy. This intertwining of political agendas with religious beliefs caused divisions within society and led to conflict among different groups regarding the role and significance of icons.
• Evaluate the long-term consequences of the second iconoclasm on Byzantine culture and its legacy in Christian practices.
  • The long-term consequences of the second iconoclasm on Byzantine culture were profound, reshaping both artistic expression and religious practices. Following its end, there was a dramatic resurgence in the production and veneration of icons that contributed to a rich visual culture that characterized later Byzantine art. This legacy not only influenced subsequent generations within the Byzantine Empire but also left a lasting imprint on Eastern Orthodox Christianity's approach to religious imagery, highlighting ongoing debates about the role of icons in worship that continue today.

Related terms

First Iconoclasm: The initial period of iconoclasm that occurred from 726 to 787 CE, marked by similar debates over the legitimacy of religious images and resulting in the temporary prohibition of icons.

Byzantine Art: A style of art that flourished in the Byzantine Empire characterized by its religious themes, use of mosaics, and distinctive stylization, particularly evident in churches and icons.

Council of Nicaea II: A church council held in 787 CE that restored the veneration of icons and declared their legitimacy within Christian practice, countering the iconoclastic movements.