Hagia Sophia: Sound, Space, and Spirit in Byzantium. Pentcheva 9780271077260**

Name: Hagia Sophia: Sound, Space, and Spirit in Byzantium. Pentcheva 9780271077260**
Brand: Pennsylvania State University Press

Pennsylvania State University Press

Explore the profound connection between sound, space, and spirituality in Byzantine religious culture with "Hagia Sophia: Sound, Space, and Spirit in Byzantium." This vibrant analysis by Bissera Pentcheva reveals how the resonant acoustics of Hagia Sophia, combined with sung liturgical rites, created an immersive performative space that allowed worshippers to feel filled with the Spirit of God. Through a multidisciplinary approach, including art history, philosophy, and archeoacoustics, Pentcheva demonstrates how 'icons of sound' generated by the liturgy and architectural reverberation led to mystical transcendence. This deeply researched and illustrated work sheds new light on sacred space, iconicity, and religious devotion in Byzantium, making it essential reading for scholars of art and architectural history, religious studies, music, acoustics, and the medieval period. Keywords: Hagia Sophia, Byzantium, Byzantine culture, religious studies, sound, space, spirit, liturgy, acoustics, medieval history, art history, architectural history, music, transcendence.