Module 3 Discussion 2: Compare and Contrast Religious Art

Jesus, Buddha, and Muhammad were all inspirational leaders and teachers. Each one of them founded a major religion long ago that still thrives today. Dive into your readings, and compare and contrast the similarities and differences between Christianity, Buddhism, and Islam. This will help you consider how religion impacts literature, visual arts, and architecture.
You should spend approximately 3 hours on this assignment.
Instructions
Part 1.

Read the Module 3 materials.
Take notes while you read, analyzing similarities and differences among the religions covered. Choose two religions (at least one must be different from the religions you will compare in the Module 3 essay). Focus on one of the following types of artistic expression within each tradition: the visual arts, including painting, sculpture, tapestry, mosaics, pottery, emblems, and icons, architecture, or music.
Once you have chosen a type of artistic expression above, find an artifact from each religious tradition that you would like to analyze and discuss. There can be variance within the type of expression (e.g., you might choose a painting from one tradition and a mosaic from another). If you choose to focus on a musical artifact, consider the context of performance as well as the music itself.

Part 2.

Create a post of at least 200 words that address these questions:

What was your analysis of the artifact? What elements did you identify? For example, for a painting, you might explain the choice of colors, composition, and materials used in making the work; and the details of figures, including clothing, expressions, actions, etc., if applicable. (Note that attitudes toward representing figures in Islamic art varied from totally aniconic to figural imagery in secular contexts. Some Islamic art depicts Muhammad, although this is forbidden in many traditions.) Are symbols employed? What is their significance?
How do these artifacts reflect and support religious beliefs and practice in their traditions?
How do you think the creative ways in which religious ideas were presented enhanced the message or had an impact on practitioners?
To what extent do you think these religious expressions influenced the culture in general?

Use examples from your readings, and provide citations. Be sure to explain the significance of your examples.
Read all the responses from fellow students. Respond to at least two, noting if their responses gave you an “aha! moment,” and if you agree or disagree with their observations and why. You must respond to at least two students who highlighted different key similarities and differences than you.
The initial post and two replies should be made on at least three separate days.