The forbidden word: the art of periphrasis and church politics in the icon controversy under Alexios I Komnenos

The controversy over the confiscation of church vessels during the reign of Alexios I is referred to as ‘the Komnenian Iconoclasm’. However, its salient feature is the reluctance of both parties to accuse their opponents directly of iconoclasm. Instead, Alexios’ supporters and adversaries mastered the art of periphrasis and allusion so that the shadow of Iconoclasm loomed more dimly over the debate. As long as the disputed word was not pronounced, there remained a chance of reconciliation. In the broader context of cultural memory about Iconoclasm, this debate is a turning point after which accusations of iconoclasm were no longer connected to iconoclastic practices.