Parthenon Marbles

Definition

The Parthenon Marbles, also known as the Elgin Marbles, are a collection of classical Greek marble sculptures that adorned the Parthenon temple on the Acropolis of Athens. They were created during the 5th century BCE and represent a significant achievement in ancient Greek art and architecture, showcasing the skill of sculptors like Phidias. These marbles provide valuable insights into the artistic and cultural accomplishments of ancient Greece.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Parthenon Marbles were originally part of the Parthenon temple built in honor of the goddess Athena between 447 and 432 BCE.
2. In the early 19th century, Thomas Bruce, the 7th Earl of Elgin, removed these sculptures from Greece and brought them to Britain, where they are now housed in the British Museum.
3. The marbles include various sculptures such as friezes, metopes, and statues that depict mythological battles and important historical events.
4. There is ongoing debate over the ownership of the Parthenon Marbles, with Greece seeking their return to their homeland as a significant aspect of cultural heritage.
5. The Parthenon Marbles exemplify the high artistic standards of ancient Greece, reflecting advancements in technique and naturalism during that period.

Review Questions

• How do the Parthenon Marbles reflect the artistic advancements of ancient Greece?
  • The Parthenon Marbles showcase significant advancements in artistic techniques during ancient Greece, particularly in sculpture. The detailed naturalism and intricate drapery seen in these works illustrate a deep understanding of human anatomy and movement. Additionally, they embody classical ideals of beauty and harmony, representing a peak in Greek artistic achievement that influenced later generations of artists.
• Discuss the implications of Elgin's acquisition of the Parthenon Marbles on cultural heritage debates today.
  • Elgin's removal of the Parthenon Marbles has sparked ongoing debates regarding cultural heritage and ownership rights. Many argue that these marbles are integral to Greek history and identity, advocating for their return to Athens to preserve their cultural context. This situation highlights broader issues surrounding colonialism and repatriation of artifacts taken during imperial times, questioning who has the right to own and display such significant historical pieces.
• Evaluate how the legacy of the Parthenon Marbles has influenced modern art movements, particularly Neoclassicism.
  • The legacy of the Parthenon Marbles has had a profound impact on modern art movements like Neoclassicism. Artists during this movement sought inspiration from classical antiquity, emphasizing ideals found in Greek sculpture such as proportion, harmony, and idealized forms. The Parthenon Marbles served as key references for neoclassical artists who aimed to revive these principles in their work, thereby linking ancient achievements to contemporary artistic expression.

Related terms

Acropolis: An ancient citadel located on a rocky outcrop above Athens, containing several significant buildings, including the Parthenon, which is dedicated to the goddess Athena.

Phidias: An ancient Greek sculptor and painter who is renowned for his works in classical sculpture, including the statue of Zeus at Olympia and the decorative sculptures of the Parthenon.

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