Final answer:
St. John Damascene is noted for his defense of holy images in Christian tradition, and his works are examined in Moshe Barasch's studies about icons. The Great Mosque of Damascus, connected to his legacy, signifies the historical religious shifts in Syria.
Step-by-step explanation:
The life and works of St. John of Damascus, also known as St. John Damascene, are of historical significance, especially concerning his defense of the veneration of holy images in Christian practice. Notable for his apologia against those who decry holy images, St. John Damascene's contributions are quoted in Moshe Barasch's work, 'Icon: studies in the history of an idea'. Furthermore, the history of the Great Mosque of Damascus, with its connections to both Christianity and Islam, reflects the multicultural and religious dynamics of Syria during the early Middle Ages. The site, which once housed a cathedral dedicated to John the Baptist and later became a significant mosque, stands as a testament to these transitions and a symbol of coexistence.