SOFHCH | Virtual Lecture: Medieval Architectural Authenticity (and Doubt)

How do monuments structure encounters between present viewers and past events? How do they emplace narratives and assert that they truthfully mark a correspondence between story and space? Twelfth-century patrons and masons were confronted with these questions in the aftermath of the First Crusade, when the topography of the “Holy Land” was refashioned to accord with medieval Christian imaginations of the sacred past. This presentation analyzes medieval strategies and motivations for moving the biblical site of Emmaus to a new location and monument. By manipulating natural features, restructuring preexisting architecture, and constructing a new church, builders created a stage for the fulfillment of pilgrims’ desires.

Attendance at SOF/Heyman events will follow Columbia-issued guidelines as they continue to develop. Given the current recommendations, we plan to allow in-person attendance for COLUMBIA AFFILIATES who have conformed with the on-campus guidelines. For everyone else, we’re planning to livestream this event, allowing for virtual attendance.

This event also will be recorded. By being electronically present, you consent to the SOF/Heyman using such video for promotional purposes.

Please email disability@columbia.edu to request disability accommodations. Advance notice is necessary to arrange for some accessibility needs.