Discussion 1: Islam and Christianity Made Visual
Considering that calligraphy and mosaic are visual representations of religious belief, compare and contrast Islamic calligraphy at Alhambra and Dome of the Rock to Christian mosaics at Ravenna. What do you think each art form communicates about the religion it represents?
Discussion 2: The Medieval Experience
If you had lived in Europe during the Middle Ages, explain whether you would have rather gone on a pilgrimage or on a Crusade. Refer to specific aspects of the journey to justify your choice.
Compare aspects of the Bayeux Tapestry to aspects of a war film depicting a real-life military battle. How do both the Bayeux Tapestry and the film influence the viewer to be more sympathetic to one side over another?