Parthenon Marbles

Definition

The Parthenon Marbles, also known as the Elgin Marbles, are a collection of classical Greek marble sculptures that once adorned the Parthenon temple in Athens. Created in the 5th century BCE during the height of the Athenian Empire, these marbles reflect the artistic excellence of ancient Greek culture and serve as important examples of classical art, showcasing themes of mythology, religion, and civic pride.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Parthenon Marbles were originally part of the Parthenon temple dedicated to the goddess Athena and were created under the supervision of Phidias around 447-432 BCE.
2. These marbles include sculptures such as friezes, metopes, and pedimental figures that depict various mythological scenes and religious ceremonies related to Athena.
3. In the early 19th century, Lord Elgin obtained the marbles from the Ottoman Empire, which controlled Greece at that time, leading to ongoing debates about their rightful ownership.
4. The Parthenon Marbles are currently housed in the British Museum in London, where they have been a source of controversy and calls for repatriation to Greece.
5. The marbles are celebrated for their intricate details and lifelike representations, exemplifying the high point of classical Greek sculpture and artistry.

Review Questions

• How do the Parthenon Marbles exemplify the artistic values and cultural significance of ancient Greece?
  • The Parthenon Marbles exemplify ancient Greek artistic values through their intricate design, proportion, and emphasis on human form. They capture key aspects of Greek culture, including religious devotion to Athena and civic pride associated with the Athenian Empire. The sculptures not only served a decorative purpose but also conveyed powerful narratives reflecting mythology and communal identity, making them vital to understanding classical Greek society.
• Discuss the historical context surrounding the removal of the Parthenon Marbles by Lord Elgin and its implications for cultural heritage.
  • Lord Elgin's removal of the Parthenon Marbles occurred during a time when Greece was under Ottoman rule, raising complex issues regarding cultural heritage and ownership. His actions were justified at the time by claims of preservation; however, this has led to long-standing debates about cultural patrimony. The controversy highlights differing perspectives on colonialism and respect for indigenous heritage, as many argue that the marbles rightfully belong in Greece where they were originally created.
• Evaluate the ongoing debates about the Parthenon Marbles in relation to global discussions on repatriation of cultural artifacts.
  • The debates surrounding the Parthenon Marbles are emblematic of broader discussions on repatriation of cultural artifacts taken during colonial periods. Proponents for repatriation argue that returning these marbles to Greece would restore cultural integrity and honor historical contexts. Conversely, some institutions contend that they play a crucial role in global heritage preservation through exhibitions. This discourse reflects complex ethical considerations about ownership, cultural identity, and responsibilities towards historical artifacts.

Related terms

Acropolis: An ancient citadel located on a high rocky outcrop above Athens, which includes several significant structures like the Parthenon.

Phidias: A renowned ancient Greek sculptor who is credited with overseeing the creation of the Parthenon Marbles and other significant artworks of the period.

Classical Architecture: A style of architecture that emerged in ancient Greece and Rome, characterized by symmetry, proportion, and the use of columns and other decorative elements.