Parthenon Marbles

Definition

The Parthenon Marbles, also known as the Elgin Marbles, are a collection of classical Greek sculptures that were originally part of the Parthenon temple in Athens, created in the 5th century BC. These marbles include architectural elements, friezes, and sculptures that depict various mythological scenes and represent the height of ancient Greek art. Their significance extends beyond mere aesthetics, as they have become emblematic of debates around cultural heritage, ownership, and repatriation.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Parthenon Marbles were removed from Greece by Lord Elgin in the early 19th century and later sold to the British Museum, where they remain today.
2. The sculptures include large portions of the Parthenon's frieze and two pediments depicting important mythological events in Greek history.
3. Greece has made numerous appeals for the return of the marbles, arguing that they are an integral part of its cultural heritage and identity.
4. The British Museum maintains that it acquired the marbles legally and that their presence in London allows for greater public access and study.
5. The debate over the Parthenon Marbles highlights broader issues regarding cultural property, colonialism, and the rights of nations to reclaim their heritage.

Review Questions

• How do the Parthenon Marbles exemplify the intersection of art and cultural heritage?
  • The Parthenon Marbles showcase remarkable artistry that reflects ancient Greek values and aesthetics. However, they also serve as a focal point in discussions about cultural heritage because their removal from Greece raises questions about ownership and preservation. The ongoing debate about their rightful home illustrates how art can be intertwined with national identity and historical narratives.
• What are the key arguments for and against the repatriation of the Parthenon Marbles?
  • Proponents of repatriation argue that the Parthenon Marbles should be returned to Greece as they are essential to understanding Greek culture and history. They believe that having these artifacts in their original context enhances their meaning. On the other hand, opponents argue that the British Museum provides a more accessible platform for global audiences to appreciate these masterpieces and maintain that their acquisition was legal at the time.
• Evaluate the impact of colonial attitudes on the current status of the Parthenon Marbles in relation to global discussions about cultural property.
  • Colonial attitudes significantly affect how cultural property is perceived today, particularly concerning artifacts like the Parthenon Marbles. These attitudes have led to widespread practices of collecting and removing artifacts from their countries of origin under the guise of preservation or enlightenment. As global discussions evolve around cultural ownership and restitution, the case of the Parthenon Marbles serves as a pivotal example that highlights injustices tied to colonial histories while influencing how museums approach their collections in a more ethically responsible manner.

Related terms

Acropolis:

A historical site in Athens, Greece, where the Parthenon and other significant ancient structures are located, symbolizing the cultural achievements of ancient Greece.

Repatriation:

The process of returning cultural artifacts to their country of origin or rightful ownership, often involving legal and ethical considerations.

Neoclassicism:

An artistic movement that emerged in the 18th century, inspired by the art and culture of ancient Greece and Rome, which saw a revival of classical forms and ideals.