How did the bible influence Michelangelo's imagination?
Thanks
-MC
Read these sites carefully.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sistine_Chapel_ceiling
http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20080311185313AAkrx6Q
Thanks
-MC
The source of Michelangelo's inspiration was the belief, as he put it in a poem, that, "Whatever beauty here on earth is seen,/ To meet the longing and perceptive eye,/ Is semblance of that source divine, / From whence we all come./ In this alone we catch a glimpse of Heaven." Art had religious value because it was the only way to glimpse the divine intention.
Michelangelo's imagination was heavily influenced by the Bible. He was deeply religious and drew inspiration from biblical stories and characters throughout his life as an artist. To understand how the Bible influenced his imagination, we can take a closer look at some specific examples.
1. The Creation of Adam: One of Michelangelo's most famous works is the fresco painting on the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel in Vatican City. It depicts the creation of Adam, as described in the book of Genesis. This painting not only showcases his artistic skill but also reflects his interpretation of the biblical narrative. The imagery of God reaching out to touch Adam's finger emphasizes the belief in the divine creation and the divine spark within humanity.
2. The Last Judgment: Michelangelo's fresco on the altar wall of the Sistine Chapel presents the biblical story of the Last Judgment as described in the New Testament. It portrays the resurrected Christ as the judge, surrounded by angels and saints. The imagery and symbolism in this complex composition reflect Michelangelo's understanding of biblical texts and theological concepts.
3. David: Another famous work by Michelangelo is the sculpture of David. While not a direct portrayal of a biblical scene, it represents the biblical figure of David, who defeated the giant Goliath in the Old Testament. This sculpture emphasizes the themes of courage, faith, and triumph over adversity found in biblical stories.
To truly understand the influence of the Bible on Michelangelo's imagination, it is important to recognize that he immersed himself in the biblical texts. He studied biblical stories, characters, and theological ideas, allowing them to shape and inform his artistic vision. Additionally, Michelangelo lived in a time when the Catholic Church played a significant role in fostering and commissioning biblical artwork, further reinforcing the connection between religion and art.