A NEW ORIENTALISM?
Stephen Bann
Jean-Louis Schefer's study takes as its point of departure Uccello's predella, Profanation the Host. The painting in question has generally been interpreted within context medieval anti-Semitism. However, Schefer argues that meaning work, and numerous other representations this particular miracle, must be referred ultimately to codification by Charlemagne dogma Real Presence. effect makes manifest requirement profaned host should reveal nature through gushing blood. This also involves a political significance, since Carolingian theology organized around consecrated stands direct opposition Byzantine icon. argument leads him make thorough investigation not only many iconographic precedents, but some key Latin texts such Libri Carolini, which are published French translation. It advances methodology is strikingly at variance with more simple-minded attempts historians crack codes complex visual tradition. One most original aspects new light overall thesis casts upon extremely well-known like Merchant Venice Dracula. Thus tendency identify vampirism an East European phenomenon, already discernible Western sources eighteenth century, shown closely linked historical extension myth In exploring outcomes doctrinal split between West, identified deep fault-line post-antique history whose consequences far from being understood present day.
History and Theory