The Codex and the Illuminated Manuscript | 1st century AD

1. Post an example of a scroll. What were the drawbacks of the scroll?

only for sequential usage. The read must read the text in the order it was written.

2. Post an example of a codex. What is a codex?

A codex is a covered and bound collection of handwritten pages, like a book. 

3."Codex" is derived from the Latin meaning "block of wood". Why?
The codex is sturdy and compact like a block of wood.

4. What is the difference between "sequential access" and "random access"?
sequential access- one must go through the entire scroll to find information
random access- one can go to any point in the book and find information 

5. What were the advantages of using the codex?
compactness, sturdiness, and ease of reference.

6. What helped spread the use of the codex?
with the rise of Christianity which adapted the from of the early bible.

7. What replaced papyrus? Describe the process used to create it?
Parchment. Hair and fat were removed from goats, sheep and cows and their hair, fat and skin was removed and smoothed out, hide was then soaked in water- calcium, flour and salt were added. Skin was stretched out, flattened, and dried. 

8. What is vellum?
finer qualities of parchment made from the skins of young calves.

9. Name several examples of current technology that utilizes the format of the codex?
Kindle and the I pad still have the format of a book. 

10. What led to a period of cultural and economical deterioration?
The decline of the roman empire resulted in fewer books being created and this led to the dark ages.

11. Post an example of an illuminated manuscript. Who began creating books by hand, taking the creation to an art form?

12. What does "illumination" refer to? What was included in this ornamentation?

13. What tool was used for creating the illuminated manuscripts?

14. Why were these manuscripts reserved for religious purposes?

15. What is craftsmanship? Why is it important?