Guest Lecture in Medieval History

Centering on an episode from medieval history, this talk will explore the intersections of religion, politics, and power – and how the tumultuous controversies of the Byzantine Empire speak to modern conflicts. 

Dr. Nikolas Hoel, Instructor of History at Northeastern Illinois History, will discuss the history of the iconoclasm controversy in the medieval Byzantine Church. This conflict centered on the use of icons in Eastern Orthodox religious practice and engulfed the imperial politics of Byzantium in the controversy that stretched across generations. Dr. Hoel’s talk will consider the strange careers of Theodorus and Theophanes, brothers who were first imprisoned and tortured, then later elevated to positions of power, to explore the context and consequences of the iconoclasm controversy. 

Dr. Hoel will be teaching an online graduate course on Medieval History with BGSU during the Summer of 2024. Students interested in taking the course are encouraged to attend the lecture in person or livestream the webinar.  

If you would like to livestream the webinar, please register at the link below:

https://bgsu-edu.zoom.us/webinar/register/3417074027934/WN_QE0sBpGHSFyxZj80pIhvLw

To individuals with disabilities, please indicate if you need special services, assistance or appropriate modifications to fully participate in this event by contacting Accessibility Services, access@bgsu.edu, 419-372-8495. Please notify us prior to any event.