La figuration du cycle du Zodiaque entre Antiquité et Moyen Âge comme lieu de mémoire et de re-sémantisation

Abstract

This study aims to show figurative, ontological, ideological embeddings, which are implemented into the figuration of the Zodiac cycle between Antiquity and Middle Ages. We show that the figuration of the Zodiac – because of its transmission over centuries and because of its ideologic content – is a place of memory at different levels. The permanence of the Zodiac is accompanied by a re-semantization process. This re-semantization is based on games of analogy and resonance, of which we give here an overview. Through different pictures chosen between Antiquity and Middle Ages, we analyze the figuration of the Zodiac into three steps. Pictures of the Zodiac are linked with the notions of memory and order. Then, we study the graphical means of a visual and ideological network and of a mediation between earth and heavens. Finally, zodiacal figures are examined as references to Antiquity and as place of a re-semantization. Between structuring, mediations, visual and semantic imbrications, the Zodiac circle appears like an element able to support liminality and transitivity in pictures and their place, between Antiquity and Middle Ages.

Keywords

• zodiac
• memory
• catasterisms
• astronomy
• manuscripts
• mosaic pavement