Christian Imagery Discussion

Post answers to the following:

In your opinion, which depiction of Christ would have been the most powerful during the late antiquity: shepherd, teacher, or miracle worker? Explain your answer using what you’ve learned in your book and video lectures.
Respond to at least one classmate’s post by offering additional details or ideas, a different perspective, or links to interesting, relevant articles or websites. Conclude with a question or new idea to further stimulate the discussion

classmate’s response (

In my opinion, the depiction of Christ as a shepherd would have been the most powerful during the late antiquity. Early Christian imagery represents Christ through figures such as a lamb or shepherd, which translates into the importance of viewing Christ as a shepherd. As many Christians at this time were converting from Paganism, it is important to recognize Christ as a tangible being, and the shepherd depiction is symbolic of how Christ leads and cares for his followers. I believe the depiction of Christ as a shepherd would resonate most with the people during the late antiquity because of the symbolism behind the art and overarching message it portrays. Additionally, images of shepherds were common, so artists did not have to learn a new figurative language in order to serve Christian buyers.

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Solution Preview

Christ as a teacher

In my opinion, the most powerful depiction of Christ during the late antiquity would be Christ as a teacher. Jesus Christ is known to be the best teacher when it comes to the laws and teachings of God. Apparently, religion was not taught by human beings in families, parishes and monasteries. At this time, many Christians were converting from paganism and Christ was teaching them about the law and rules of Moses.

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