HPA1313 - The Icon: History, Spirituality and Practice

MQF Level

Duration and Credits

Semester 2

5 ECTS

Mode of Study

Part-Time Evening

This study-unit will be divided into three components. The first component (with Rev. Dr Farrugia) will trace the history and the theological developments of the importance of iconography in Christianity, with particular attention given to the iconoclast controversies of the 8th and 9th centuries. The second component (with Rev. Prof. Camilleri) will illustrate the spiritual and theological foundations of icon writing, usage and veneration. The third component (with Rev. Sultana) will consist of a practical hands-on experience of the creation of an icon to appraise the correct approach of the iconographer, following the historical guidelines of icon writing and symbology.

Main Reading List

Evdokimov, Paul. The Art of the Icon. A Theology of Beauty. Oakwood, 1989.

Supplementary Reading List

Baggley, John and Richard Temple. Doors of Perception: Icons and Their Spiritual Significance. St Vladimir's Seminary Press, 1996.
Besan莽on, Alain. The Forbidden Image. An Intellectual History of Iconoclasm. The University of Chicago Press, 2000.
Giakalis, Ambrosios. Images of the Divine. The Theology of Icons in the Seventh Ecumenical Council. Revised Edition. Brill, 2005.
Spidik, Tomas and Marko Ivan Rupnik. La fede secondi le icone. Lipa SRL, 2000.

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Study-unit Aims

Define the various dimensions of icon creating;
Classify the historic development of the role of iconography in the faith;
Infer the spiritual dimension of the written icon.

Learning Outcomes: Knowledge and Understanding

By the end of the study-unit the student will be able to:

Define the catechetical value behind the icon;
Locate the icon in its historical, theological and spiritual context;
Paraphrase the materials used in icon-writing and their relation to the four elements of creation.

Learning Outcomes: Skills

By the end of the study-unit the student will be able to:

Explain the meaning of symbols, colours, body gestures, materials and the architectural milieu of the icon;
Appraise the methodology involved in creating an icon, following the canons established by the Church;
Collaborate in the creation of new icons through interpretation of meaning and/or hands-on collaboration.

Non EU Applicants:

EUR325

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Micro-credentials offer the possibility of providing flexible learning pathways to respond to evolving needs and new developments, thus enabling students to tailor their studies to their needs. Micro-credentials may be combined or transferred into larger credentials, such as certificates, diplomas and degrees, provided that the relevant programme requirements are met. Applicants wishing to transfer micro-credentials to a programme of study are encouraged to seek the advice of the relevant academic entity.