What were the cultural differences between the Eastern and Western Roman Empires? (ex. language, religion, architecture, art)
- Language: In the Eastern Roman Empire, Greek was the dominant language, while Latin was the primary language in the Western Roman Empire.
- Religion: Christianity was a major cultural difference between the two empires. The Eastern Roman Empire was predominantly Christian, with the influence of the Byzantine Church, while the Western Roman Empire initially practiced traditional Roman religion before adopting Christianity as the state religion.
- Architecture: The Eastern Roman Empire, particularly under the Byzantine Empire, developed a distinctive style of architecture known as Byzantine architecture, characterized by domes, elaborate mosaics, and intricate designs. In contrast, the Western Roman Empire's architecture was influenced by Roman and later medieval styles.
- Art: The Eastern Roman Empire produced renowned artworks such as the Byzantine mosaics and icons, known for their religious symbolism and intricate details. In contrast, the Western Roman Empire produced a variety of artworks influenced by Roman, Gothic, and later Renaissance styles.
Overall, the Eastern and Western Roman Empires had significant cultural differences in terms of language, religion, architecture, and art, reflecting their distinct histories, influences, and development over time.