What was the effect of illuminated manuscripts on the Byzantine Empire?

Illuminated manuscripts played a significant role in the Byzantine Empire by serving as vital tools for religious and cultural expression. These intricately decorated texts not only preserved theological knowledge and classical literature but also conveyed the empire's artistic and aesthetic values. The visual splendor of illuminated manuscripts helped reinforce the authority of the Church and the state, while also influencing the development of artistic styles in the region. Ultimately, they contributed to the continuity of Byzantine culture and its transmission to later European art and literature.