Justinian the Byzantine period
Lawler (7) says that the Byzantine Empire followed the fall of Roman Empire. Many emperors were trying to restore this glory. Justinian, one of these dynasties was among those who failed. Justinian is one of the Byzantine emperors who married Theodora. Byzantines fell and divided due to the influence of Islam. Justinian was tasked with restoring Byzantine to its former glory. In this article, we will demonstrate how he used Christianity to influence architecture and restore Byzantine. It will also be described how he influenced the design of holy sites.
Justinian achieved so much else than just being a ruler. Some of the effects of his rule can be seen even today. Byzantine Empire culture was a Greco-Roman fusion of Greeks and West Roman Empires that had developed differently. Christianity was a major social force during Justinian’s reign. Justinian’s main concern was to restore the glory of the Roman Empire and fortify it. Rodgers, N.P., argues Justinian was required to reclaim the Roman Empire. Nevertheless, he was able to associate with Christian culture.
Urban development was one of Justinian’s infrastructures. His main focus was the construction of new structures to help revitalize Constantinople. Justinian built the Hagia Sophia. Byzantines were trained in basic construction and material science. They also learned arithmetic. Rodgers, N.P., claims that the basilica in Roman times was considered the most important building. Justinian also set the standard for the majestic building with the dome design. In this way, he made beautiful interior models including decorated columns.
Byzantine art was created to celebrate Christianity and express the Christian fellowship. Byzantine artists used a profound imagery to depict items on earth which were meant for the conquests. During the Byzantine period, mosaics are used extensively to show the image of San Vitale’s colossal figure in Ravenna. The mosaic configurations used thousands of shapes of marble or glass, with vibrant colors and in some cases, gold. In other mosaics, Christ was represented as a great Shepherd. We can now see the emergence of Christian art in its golden age. He borrowed architectural plans from ancient Roman architecture in his pursuit of excellence. He added to the Greek Cross plans by adding new shapes and structures.
Justinian had to deal with a major dilemma when he was in power. The uprising against his architectural advancements, which became known as the Nika Riots, caused widespread distress. Individuals did not like the tyrant’s method of dealing with the state, undermining their quick defiance. Rodgers (27), a historian, believes the ancients expressed their opinions on social and cultural issues through art. They believed that they were fighting a “great battle” against Justinian’s rule. They did not have the ability to understand the social and political perspectives of the time, nor the impact that Justinian had on the people. Justinian was criticized by the populace for his view of law and his way of running the empire at the start of his tenure. As a result, Justinian pushed the law’s limits to the point of causing chaos and destruction in his empire.
Justinian was responsible for the restoration of Ravenna to its former status as Italy’s capital. This also coincided with a change in the assessment of state taxes and legislation. Justinian, a pivotal figure in Byzantine history, is responsible for many of its notable Christian artifacts and religious buildings. He also had to deal with many impediments, which led him to make decisions that would restore the Byzantine Empire’s former Roman significance. “Justinian has received unending praise for his legitimate work, the Great Church, as well as the writings, poetry, and philosophical achievements by his peers.
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