Exploring Coptic Heritage

Dive into the rich tapestry of Coptic archaeology and culture through our comprehensive course modules. Learn online, explore historical sites, and discover the secrets of the early Christian period of Egypt.

Course Syllabus

Discover the detailed syllabus crafted to impart knowledge on Coptic archaeology. Our online courses offer a structured pathway for enthusiasts and professionals alike.

See below for further information

 

Learn Online

Our online platform facilitates learning at your own pace. 

Join a community passionate about cultural heritage and ancient history to enhance your understanding.

Course information can be accessed at any time.

Regular weekly sessions via a whats app or zoom group

Weekly presentations and electronic handouts weekly

Videos and links to current news and excavations

Possible annual tours to Egypt to visit Coptic and Egyptian sites

Applications email to Course tutor

Photographic Links

Explore our curated photographic links capturing the essence of Coptic culture and archaeological sites. A visual journey into history like no other.

Syllabi

 

Introduction to the Early Coptic Period in Egypt: The Early Christian era in Egypt 1st century CE to 7th Century CE.

Length of course  8 weeks

This is a ‘taster’ course which covers a broad aspect of the Coptic culture and the Coptic Church and is extremely useful for those wishing to know more about the Coptic Egyptians, and to gain a broad base of knowledge towards further more detailed courses. It is also very useful for Coptic people themselves to learn more about their past heritage.

  1. The Holy Family in Egypt and the Early history of the Coptic Period
  2. The beginnings of Monasticism – the ascetic life St. Anthony and St Paul

3  Coptic literature, texts and language.

4  Early Monasticism

  1. The early Coptic church - art and archaeology
  2. The Coptic Church - reforms and issues 3rd - 5th century CE
  3. Coptic texts, language and cultural issues
  4. Archaeology, Art and Architecture
  5. Coptic Art - Icon painting

10 The effects of the Arabic invasion of Egypt 7th Century CE

 

The Art and Architecture of the Coptic Period in Egypt.

 

This is a general course to introduce students to the importance of the role of art and iconography  in the Coptic Church and culture, and the influence of Pharaonic temple design on the development of monastic and ecclesiastical building construction.

 

1 Introduction to the Coptic Period/chronology  

2 Early Monastic architecture/archaeology

3 Origins of Monastic art – site example Kellia

4 Architecture of the Coptic Church and development

5 The development of wall paintings – from selected important sites

6 The Dakhla oasis

7 Icon writing/painting and iconography

8 Restoration techniques and Current restoration programmes – St Paul’s Monastery. (Alternate current examples of restoration programmes may be offered)

 

Monasticism

This course will take a more in depth view of Monasticism, the life of an ascetic and in a communal setting and the role the monasteries played in education, art and writing.

Course Syllabus:

Week1:  Introduction – Geography of Egypt – Monastic sites and reading material

Week 2: The beginnings of Monasticism – the ascetic life – St Anthony and St Paul

Week 3: The kell – Hermit cells – Development of the Art and Architecture

Week 4: Wadi Natrun – the beginnings of monasticism

Week 5: The Coptic Church, language and texts. St. Shenute and the white monastery

Week 6: Monastic writings and Icon writing and iconography

Week 7: The Arabic invasion 7th C.

Week 8 Conservation programmes in Coptic monasteries

 

 

 

 

 

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