117: Quiz on What Angels Look Like
How were angels depicted in pre-Constantinian art?
A) Angels were depicted as physical beings with wings
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B) Angels were depicted in human form without wings
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C) Angels were not depicted at all in pre-Constantinian art
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Question explanation
In pre-Constantinian Christian art, angels were depicted in human form without wings. They were only represented when historically necessary and not as an abundant, winged figure as scriptural references would suggest, possibly due to the association with classic art at the time.
What significant change occurred in the depiction of angels during Constantine's reign?
A) Angels were depicted as jester figures with crowns.
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B) Angels started to be depicted with wings, inspired by classic "Victories."
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C) Angels were removed from art altogether.
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Question explanation
During the reign of Constantine, a significant change occurred in the depiction of angels in Christian art: they began to be depicted with wings. These winged angels were inspired by the classic art figures known as the "Victories". This coincided with a shift from symbolic art to historic art.
What role did angels commonly play in fifth-century Christian art?
A) Angels were commonly depicted as attendants to Jesus and the Virgin Mary
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B) Angels were commonly depicted as soldiers fighting demons
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C) Angels were commonly depicted as messengers delivering God's word to humans
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Question explanation
In the fifth century, angels became popular in Christian art. They were often depicted as attendants to Jesus and the Virgin Mary, reflecting their scriptural roles as divine messengers and helpers.
Why was creating an official cult for angels problematic during the first centuries of Christianity?
A) It would have caused angels to be seen as inferior divinities, as seen in the Gnostic movement.
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B) The church wasn't organized enough to handle the creation of such cults
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C) It was considered heretical to worship anything other than God
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Question explanation
Creating an official cult for angels during the first centuries of Christianity would have caused them to be seen as inferior divinities, similar to the views in the Gnostic movement. This was problematic due to the prevalent belief in many gods at the time, which made it necessary to emphasize the unity of God.