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Latin Literatures of Medieval and Early Modern Times in Europe and Beyond: A millennium heritage
Edited by Francesco Stella
[Comparative History of Literatures in European Languages XXXIV] 2024
► pp. 555–567

Chapter 26
Latin traditions in medieval cartography

| CNRS, Paris

The tradition of medieval maps is studied, mainly that of the mappae mundi, representations of the oecumene or the terrestrial sphere. These images, diagrammatic or offering topographical details, originate from the educational tradition of Antiquity. They are found in great numbers in manuscripts, but also in monumental ensembles (religious buildings or palaces). They were constantly reworked according to the interests of their authors and the functions they attributed to them. Their functions are varied: knowledge of the places they depict is a prerequisite for allegorical exegesis; in monasteries, they serve as a support for spiritual practices; sovereignty is justified by domination over a world they represent; military expeditions are planned thanks to the geopolitical vision they provide.

Keywords: medieval mappae mundi, T-O diagram, medieval geography, medieval schooling, symbols of sovereignty
Article outline
  • Typology and evolution
  • Functions
  • Conclusion
  • References
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