Elgin Marbles

Definition

The Elgin Marbles are a collection of classical Greek marble sculptures that originally adorned the Parthenon and other structures on the Acropolis of Athens. These artworks were brought to Britain in the early 19th century by Lord Elgin and have since sparked significant debate over their rightful ownership, particularly in the context of repatriation of cultural artifacts.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Elgin Marbles include a variety of sculptures, such as friezes, metopes, and statues, created by Phidias and his assistants in the 5th century BCE.
2. Lord Elgin obtained permission from the Ottoman Empire, which controlled Greece at the time, to remove these marbles from the Parthenon between 1801 and 1812.
3. The British Museum has housed the Elgin Marbles since their acquisition, where they remain a prominent attraction and subject of controversy.
4. Greece has made repeated requests for the return of the Elgin Marbles, arguing that they are an integral part of Greek cultural heritage and identity.
5. The debate over the Elgin Marbles highlights broader issues related to colonialism, cultural ownership, and the responsibilities of museums in holding artifacts obtained through colonial means.

Review Questions

• What are the main arguments for and against the repatriation of the Elgin Marbles to Greece?
  • Proponents of repatriation argue that the Elgin Marbles are essential to Greek cultural heritage and should be returned to their original context in Athens. They emphasize that these artworks were taken during a period of colonial exploitation and that their return would correct historical injustices. On the other hand, opponents argue that the marbles are safely preserved in the British Museum, where they are accessible to a global audience, and that their relocation could pose risks to their preservation.
• How did Lord Elgin's actions impact the perception of cultural artifact ownership during the colonial era?
  • Lord Elgin's acquisition of the marbles exemplifies how colonial powers often viewed cultural artifacts as trophies rather than integral parts of their original cultures. This perspective contributed to widespread practices where artifacts were removed from their home countries under various pretexts, leading to ongoing debates about ownership and ethical responsibilities. Elgin's actions thus became a symbol for discussions on cultural imperialism and highlighted the need for clearer standards regarding artifact ownership.
• Evaluate how the case of the Elgin Marbles reflects broader trends in the repatriation movement and its implications for museums worldwide.
  • The case of the Elgin Marbles serves as a critical example in the repatriation movement, reflecting a growing recognition of indigenous rights and cultural heritage across various nations. As more countries seek to reclaim artifacts taken during colonial periods, museums worldwide face pressure to reconsider their collections and practices. This trend challenges institutions to address ethical questions about acquisition methods and promotes dialogues around cultural restitution, ultimately shaping policies that may lead to significant changes in how museums curate and present their collections.

Related terms

Parthenon: A former temple on the Acropolis of Athens, dedicated to the goddess Athena, which housed many of the original sculptures now known as the Elgin Marbles.

Cultural Heritage: The legacy of physical artifacts and intangible attributes of a group or society inherited from past generations, which includes works like the Elgin Marbles.

Repatriation:

The process of returning cultural artifacts to their country of origin or to their rightful owners, often linked to discussions about ownership rights and cultural heritage.