Theodulf of Orléans’ Ecclesial Beauty
Gabriel Torretta
Theodulf of Orléans’ first major work for the Carolingian court, Opus Caroli regis (790-793), employs a vast arsenal authorities, themes, and theological subjects in order to refute what he sees as grave errors both Nicaea II (787) Hiereia (754). ’s has been studied from various perspectives Western engagement with eighth/ninth century Bilderstreit, but one constant theme book gone unexplored: beauty. In this article, I examine many different contexts which talks about beauty, beginning until just before its end. Although never directly thematizes evinces consistent concept considered relation God, Church, human behavior, works physical art. The presents an ecclesial vision humanity receives beauty gift Trinity, given through Incarnation Church that is built beautified by Christ’s blood. Life leads person be conformed Christ already on earth, preparation perfect heavenly seeing God is. interior faith external works, her members manifest they have received spiritual virtues. Thus Theodulf, Church’s neither purely nor reality: it incarnational. This incarnate, provides consistent, conceptual ground via media images, argues manufactured can useful Christians means enacting right belief worship. Perceptible beauties add nothing glory used rightly reveal encourage life worship, directed heaven.
Sacris Erudiri