Parthenon

Definition

The Parthenon is an ancient temple on the Athenian Acropolis in Greece, dedicated to the goddess Athena, whom the people of Athens considered their patroness. Constructed in the 5th century BCE, it exemplifies the architectural advancements of Classical Greece and has influenced numerous structures in the neoclassical style, representing ideals of beauty, harmony, and democracy. Its design incorporates the Doric order, with innovative use of entasis to correct optical illusions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Parthenon was built between 447 and 432 BCE during the height of the Athenian Empire under the leadership of Pericles.
2. It housed a massive statue of Athena Parthenos, made of gold and ivory, which was crafted by the renowned sculptor Phidias.
3. The temple's architectural innovations include subtle curves and a slight incline in its columns to create a visually perfect form, correcting distortions caused by perspective.
4. The Parthenon was not only a religious site but also served as a symbol of Athenian democracy and cultural achievement.
5. Throughout history, the Parthenon has undergone various transformations, including serving as a Christian church and later as a mosque during Ottoman rule.

Review Questions

• How does the architectural design of the Parthenon reflect the values and aesthetics of Classical Greece?
  • The Parthenon's architectural design embodies the values of Classical Greece through its use of the Doric order and its harmonious proportions. The careful attention to detail in its columns and entablatures highlights the Greek pursuit of beauty and balance. Moreover, its dedication to Athena reflects civic pride and democratic ideals, showcasing how architecture was intertwined with cultural identity in ancient Athens.
• Discuss how the Parthenon has influenced neoclassical architecture and what elements were borrowed from its design.
  • The Parthenon has had a profound impact on neoclassical architecture, inspiring numerous buildings worldwide. Architects borrowed its Doric columns, symmetrical proportions, and emphasis on harmony to create structures that reflect classical ideals. This revival emphasized civic virtue and republicanism during the Enlightenment period, leading to iconic buildings like the U.S. Capitol and various state capitols that echo the grandeur of the Parthenon.
• Evaluate the significance of the Parthenon as a cultural symbol in both ancient Greece and its continued relevance in modern times.
  • The Parthenon serves as a powerful cultural symbol both in ancient Greece as a testament to Athenian democracy and artistic achievement, and in modern times as an enduring representation of classical ideals. Its role as a religious site dedicated to Athena emphasized the importance of civic pride and cultural identity for Athenians. Today, it symbolizes Western civilization's historical roots in democracy and philosophy while also standing as a reminder of cultural heritage preservation amidst ongoing discussions about art restitution and global heritage.

Related terms

Doric Order: The Doric Order is one of the classical orders of ancient Greek architecture characterized by simple, sturdy columns and a plain frieze, reflecting strength and functionality.

Acropolis: The Acropolis is an ancient citadel located on a high rocky outcrop above Athens, containing several significant buildings including the Parthenon, symbolizing the glory of ancient Greece.

Neoclassicism: Neoclassicism is an artistic movement that emerged in the mid-18th century, drawing inspiration from the art and culture of ancient Greece and Rome, emphasizing harmony, clarity, and proportion.