Narratives of the Fall Analysis - Book Report/Review Example

It also contains its architectural layout, its sculptural decoration, and many aspects of the wall-painting program, etc. Antony Eastmond, in the article “Narratives of the Fall: Structure and Meaning in the Genesis Frieze at Hagia Sophia, Trebizond”, observes one of the most important peculiarities of the church, i.e. the sculptural wall painting of scenes from Genesis that runs across the south porch of the church. “This article re-examines every aspect of the frieze, including its composition, liturgical importance, and function within the church, and makes use of the accompanying inscriptions, which were generally ignored by previous writers.” (Eastmond) Thus, the author deals, in detail, with every aspect of the frieze in different sections of the article such as Description, Analysis, and Interpretation. Through the article, Eastmond attempts to show that it is essential to find its place in the mainstream of Byzantine artistic practice to understand and interpret the frieze effectively. The relationship between the frieze and the liturgy essentially points to the greatest function of the frieze. The author has been effective in producing a perfect description of one of the most important peculiarities of the frieze which in turn enhances the appreciation of the sculptural wall painting of scenes from Genesis. The readers can achieve a better explanation and understanding of the frieze and the author has been careful in making connections with other essential elements of the church. Read More