Column

Definition

A column is a structural element that typically consists of a vertical shaft, a base, and a capital. In the context of ancient architecture, especially in temples and sacred spaces, columns serve both functional and aesthetic purposes, supporting the weight of the roof while also enhancing the beauty and grandeur of the structure. The design of columns, including their proportions and decorations, reflects the cultural and artistic values of the time.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Columns in ancient Greek architecture are often categorized into three distinct orders: Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian, each with unique features and proportions.
2. The earliest columns, known as Doric columns, are characterized by their sturdy, simple design and lack of a base.
3. Ionic columns are identified by their scrolled capitals and are typically more slender than Doric columns, representing a shift towards elegance.
4. Corinthian columns are the most ornate, featuring elaborate capitals adorned with acanthus leaves, reflecting a high point in decorative art.
5. Columns were not only structural elements but also conveyed religious significance; they symbolized stability and strength in sacred spaces.

Review Questions

• How do the different orders of columns reflect the cultural values of ancient Greece?
  • The different orders of columns—Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian—reflect ancient Greek cultural values through their design and proportions. Doric columns emphasize strength and simplicity, mirroring the Greek ideals of discipline and order. In contrast, Ionic columns introduce more elegance with their scroll-like capitals, indicating a shift towards sophistication. Lastly, Corinthian columns exhibit extreme ornamentation, showcasing the Greeks' appreciation for beauty and complexity as they progressed into later periods.
• Discuss how columns contribute to the overall architectural design of temples in ancient Greece.
  • Columns play a crucial role in the architectural design of ancient Greek temples by providing structural support while enhancing aesthetic appeal. They create an impressive verticality that draws the eye upward, symbolizing a connection between the earth and the divine. Additionally, the arrangement of columns around a temple helps to define sacred space and can influence how light interacts with the building's interior. This careful integration of function and beauty reflects the Greeks' dedication to both practicality and artistry in their sacred structures.
• Evaluate the impact of column design on later architectural styles beyond ancient Greece.
  • The impact of column design from ancient Greece has been profound on later architectural styles throughout history. The principles established by Greek column orders have influenced Roman architecture, where they were adapted into grand structures like the Pantheon. The revival of classical elements during the Renaissance brought columns back to prominence in European architecture, seen in cathedrals and government buildings that symbolize power and permanence. Even in modern architecture, echoes of classical column designs persist, showcasing their enduring legacy in shaping architectural aesthetics across different cultures and eras.

Related terms

Entablature:

The horizontal structure supported by columns, typically consisting of three main sections: the architrave, frieze, and cornice.

Order: A style of column characterized by its design, proportions, and decorative details, commonly classified into styles such as Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian.

Pilaster: A flattened column that is attached to a wall, serving a decorative purpose while also providing the illusion of structural support.