The iconoclastic controversy lasted from 726 AD, when Emperor Leo III began an attack on the use of religious images, until 843 AD when the Empress Theodora allowed their restoration. Since this contestable time period, many art historians have questioned the negative and positive issues behind iconoclasm-the desecration of religious icons. Although in many instances this iconoclastic movement seemed ridiculous and unnecessary, Leo III had a definite objective in mind. Leo III had ample cause to be concerned with the spiritual lives of his people. Icons were seen as symbols of security for the Byzantine people, a way of breaking the Second Commandment, and a quick way for the monasteries of that time period to make a lot of money--all in which undoubtedly go against Christianity.
             During this ancient Byzantine time, the Christian religion became a very high power. Christianity was used in government proceedings, and built-in to all Byzantine people's daily routine. Christianity was such an important part of these people's daily life that Christ and Virgin Mary icons were bound to become a necessity in homes and monasteries all over the Byzantine Empire. They felt a need to show and prove their love for this all superior being that died to relieve them of their sins. After these icons became so popular and appealing, people then start loosing the strength of the Christian message. They then started to focus in on these icons they pray to and confide in each day. Leo III being a very religious Christian, focused his worship more on the issues behind Christianity, versus the pictures that everyone and worshipping and flocking to. This false sense of security began to worry Leo III, but nevertheless, he held his tongue. It was not until these icons started bleeding real blood from their eyes, and healing people's illnesses that Leo III couldn't take any longer. This idea that these people kept in their heads t...