The Architectural Setting of the Cult of Saints in the Early Christian West, c.300-1200 (review)
David Rollason
This book is, in its author's words, a "survey" of "the architectural forms deriving from the cult saints." Beginning with lucid exposition relics early Middle Ages (for example, burial ad sanctos and relationship between altars, as well ideas virtus praesentia), moves on to consider physical arrangements for down c. 750 construction churches over tombs saints). There is then an interesting chapter influence earlier Roman architecture crypts Carolingian renaissance, followed by survey rather different developments (notably appearance radiating chapels) ninth eleventh centuries. The focus becomes more English, relic cults Normandy England tenth centuries, another twelfth century. A final deals development shrines across whole period. well-written, well-researched, notably well-presented book. plans plates, which are generally Crook's own, very high standard. Moreover, Crook often deploying firsthand knowledge sites discussed, brings bear them expertise specialist historian. He into discussion number neglected or less well-known sites, deserve prominence given his work. As survey, therefore useful contribution, provides mine information. It nevertheless has limitations. Its underlying method interpret archaeological remains terms literary sources saints, result that it tends reinforce than modify existing interpretations. aim seems be explain question, seek use evidence their own right. Admittedly, takes step this direction when he England, here at best re-evaluating impact Norman Conquest English church extent saints was--or was not--accommodated constructed shortly after Conquest, apparent resurgence interest saints' Even here, however, reader feels lack real synthesis, delves example handling some detailed although admittedly fascinating way (his 'Holy Hole' Winchester, example). His good author really using material re-evaluate history, fact little beyond work R. Krautheimer basilicas. In end, we left persistent saints," involving "a compromise needs clergy those people who flocked body local saint." not revelatory conclusion, hoped will now stimulate scholars come grips surveys free-standing beliefs attitudes [End Page 716] Ages, Maureen C. Miller recently done so brilliantly type survival (The Bishop's Palace Medieval Italy [Ithaca: Cornell University Press, 2000]).
Catholic Historical Review