Parthenon Sculptures

Definition

The Parthenon Sculptures, also known as the Elgin Marbles, are a collection of classical Greek marble sculptures that adorned the Parthenon temple on the Acropolis of Athens. Created during the height of the Classical period in the 5th century BCE, these sculptures showcase the artistic mastery and cultural achievements of Ancient Greece, reflecting both religious devotion and civic pride.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Parthenon Sculptures include various elements such as the frieze, metopes, and the pedimental sculptures that depict mythological scenes and represent important cultural narratives of the time.
2. These sculptures were created under the leadership of Phidias and reflect the ideals of harmony, proportion, and naturalism that characterize Classical Greek art.
3. Originally painted in vibrant colors, many of the Parthenon Sculptures have lost their pigment over time due to weathering and restoration efforts.
4. The sculptures were removed from Greece by Lord Elgin in the early 19th century and are now housed in the British Museum, sparking ongoing debates about cultural heritage and repatriation.
5. The Parthenon itself was constructed as a temple dedicated to Athena, the patron goddess of Athens, and served as a symbol of Athenian democracy and power.

Review Questions

• How do the Parthenon Sculptures reflect the values and beliefs of Ancient Greek society during their creation?
  • The Parthenon Sculptures embody the values of Ancient Greek society through their representation of mythological events and figures that are central to Athenian culture. By depicting scenes that celebrate civic pride and religious devotion to Athena, these works illustrate the connection between art and identity in Athens during the Classical period. The emphasis on harmony, proportion, and idealized beauty in these sculptures also reflects broader philosophical ideals prevalent at that time.
• Evaluate the impact of Lord Elgin's removal of the Parthenon Sculptures on cultural heritage discussions today.
  • Lord Elgin's removal of the Parthenon Sculptures has had a profound impact on discussions surrounding cultural heritage and repatriation. This act has sparked ongoing debates about ownership and the ethical implications of removing artifacts from their original context. Many argue that these sculptures should be returned to Greece as they are integral to understanding Athenian identity and history, while others contend that they are better preserved in institutions like the British Museum for international access.
• Analyze how the artistic techniques used in the Parthenon Sculptures exemplify advancements during the Classical Period in Ancient Greece.
  • The artistic techniques employed in the Parthenon Sculptures highlight significant advancements during the Classical Period. Sculptors like Phidias utilized methods such as contrapposto to create a sense of movement and realism in their figures. The attention to anatomical accuracy and expression exemplifies a shift towards naturalism that characterized this era. Furthermore, innovations in architectural design, like entasis in columns seen in the Parthenon, reflect a deep understanding of optical effects that enhance both structural integrity and aesthetic appeal.

Related terms

Acropolis: A prominent rock formation in Athens, home to several ancient buildings, including the Parthenon, serving as a center for religious and civic life in Ancient Greece.

Phidias: A renowned ancient Greek sculptor who oversaw the construction of the Parthenon and is credited with creating many of its iconic sculptures, including the statue of Athena Parthenos.

Classical Period: A historical era in Ancient Greece, typically defined as spanning from the 5th to 4th centuries BCE, marked by significant advancements in art, philosophy, and democracy.