medieval Armenia

State and Religion: Foundation and Patronage of Monasteries as a Method of Territory Control in 9th c. Armenia

The article explores the relationship between the patronage of monasteries and territory control in Greater Armenia in the second half of the 9th century based on the study of three cases. The first is the foundation of the Monastery of Sevan by Princess Mariam Bagratid and the renowned ascetic Maštoc‘ in 871. It is suggested that this and other monastic foundations around Lake Sevan (Gełark‘unik‘ territory) were a means of extending Bagratid influence, if not yet full control, on this neighboring region ruled by the Siwnids.

The Bible and the Royal Power: Legitimation of the Bagratid Dynasty in Medieval Armenian Historiography

The article deals with “constructing of the past” and legitimation of power of the Bagratid dynasty in medieval Armenian historiography. It focuses upon the use of biblical symbols by the medieval historians and the role of these symbols in the consolidation of power of the ruling dynasty. The article draws upon three sources belonging to the beginning, the middle, and the end of the Bagratid rule (History of Armenia by Hovhannes Draskhanakerttsi; General History by Stephanos Taronetsi; History of Vardapet Aristakes Lastivertsi).