Abstract:
The modern nature of maps is self-evident.
The majority of people from modern developed societies who use and view maps have been taught what to expect and how the world is viewed. However, maps and representations of cartography in the medieval world followed a different set of connotations. Maps, although in many ways are highly liberating to their audiences in terms of accessibility to information, can also be highly authoritarian, constraining its readers to view the world that the map’s patron wishes to portray. This thesis will explore the representation of Caput Mundi and the presence of Rome in 13th century cartographic examples. This Thesis will also draw comparisons between the different representations of Rome in cartographic examples from 13th century Europe and how and where Rome is depicted within these examples.
