So I signed up for a free online course from Trinity College, Dublin and am learning about the Book of Kells -- that amazingly beautiful and ornate illuminated manuscript from the 9th Century -- and the society that produced this treasure.
I love learning new things. I was amazed to learn that in the 10th Century, Irish monasteries had established foundations (other monasteries) across Europe -- in France, Germany, Italy, and as far east as Vienna.
I am also enchanted by the calligraphy (insular majuscule it's called) and find myself strongly tempted to dig out my long-abandoned pens and ink . . .
The course lasts four weeks and is not especially grueling -- they say four hours reading/viewing time each week. I'm halfway through the first week and really enjoying it.
( If you're interested in learning more about this course, follow the link HERE)
All images from Pinterest.
6 comments:
I've been out of town with a dying friend, but have this email waiting for me to start learning. I will be seeing whichever page it is open to the end of next month and wanted to learn more before I get there.
These are such beautiful illustrations! The monks made these inks...and they are still so vibrant! I signed up for the course, but missed yesterday's first lesson...will try to catch up.
I believe we have till Nov 18 to complete it. (Forever if you choose the paying option.)
this is amazing - what a discovery - thanks Vicki! Oh I love that Cat From the Book of Kells image! and right below a course about the Lancaster Castle - close to my heart. I'm so behind - missed commenting about Josie's adventures with language! Isn't that the best! I loved how she fell for the photo on book jacket - when our younger son was little, he was for a time, transfixed by the teeny tiny image of Buddy Holly (the skinny tie and black suit look)on the back of a tape case. We could barely see it -- he adored it.
Hi Vicki, Is this a separate church or the Catholic Church? Sounds interesting. Thanks
Jim, At this time in western Europe, the Roman Catholic church was pretty much the only game in town.
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