The Iconoclastic Controversy refers to a period of religious conflict in the Byzantine Empire during the 8th and 9th centuries. It involved a debate over the use of religious images, with some arguing for their veneration (iconophiles) and others advocating for their destruction (iconoclasts).
Imagine a heated argument between two groups of friends about whether it's appropriate to have pictures on your bedroom walls. One group believes that having pictures brings comfort and inspiration (iconophiles), while the other group thinks they are distracting and should be removed (iconoclasts).
Iconophiles: Supporters of the use and veneration of religious images.
Iconoclasts: Advocates for the destruction or removal of religious images.
Byzantine Empire: The eastern half of the Roman Empire, which lasted from 330 CE to 1453 CE.
Study guides for the entire semester
200k practice questions
Glossary of 50k key terms - memorize important vocab
© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.
AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.