Fly on over to Greece, a Classical Civilization!

      The classical Greek period had a powerful influence on the Roman Empire and was the beginning of Western civilization. Worth of the individual, democracy, independence, and artistic thought were just some of the new themes emerging. In the context of culture, art, and architecture during ancient Greek times, the period of time from which Great Alexander died until the Roman Empire came about is also known as the Hellenistic period. (323-330 B.C.)

What it was like...

      Greece is mountainous and surrounded by three seas. This caused competition among many of the communities, trade complications, and there were many independent governments. The summers were hot and the winters were very bitter. Greek agriculture consisted of grain, grapes, olives, and salt. The golden age occurred from 480-400 B.C.. The classical orders of architecture emerged and the building of the Parthenon was substantial. 

      Built in 447 B.C. when the Athenian Empire was at the height of its power, the Parthenon was dedicated as a temple of goddess Athena. It is recognized as the most important surviving building of Classical Greece. The Parthenon is looked upon as an enduring symbol of Ancient Greece and western civilization. 

Goddess Athena

Parthenon

       Although these columns look equal in size, and as though they are the same width throughout, they are not in actuality. The architects of this time really focused on the art of how we see and perceive things. They were masters of developing balance and creating structures that are pleasing to the eye. A few examples are that the corner columns are actually heavier than those in between, the center of the column is the widest part, and the distance between columns is actually not spaced equally. 

Classical Order   

       The classical order is one of the ancient styles of classical architecture, and is most recognized by the type of column used. There are three orders: Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian. 

Basic structure of the three types of columns.

• Doric originated from 7th century Western Greece, it is the simplest of the three orders. Short round capitals with no base. 
• Ionic order came from Eastern Greece and is more complicated in design than that of the Doric order. You can immediately tell an Ionic column from a Doric if you see a scroll design, known as volutes. This style is taller and more feminine than the Doric order.
• Corinthian style order is the most complicated and intricate. Not only does it have scrolls, but the presence of acanthus leaves adds much ornate elegance to the capital. There are 24 flutes on the shaft of the Corinthian order column. There is a story behind the acanthus leaves and how the design came to be.

A Typical Greek Home

       Mud brick, stone foundation, wooden framework, and terracotta roofs were the norm. The Greek did as much as possible to limit heat from the sun and hot air. There were separate male and female areas within a home. Most homes had a compluvium (hole in ceiling) and a cistern that would collect rain water. The floors were plastered and painted, mosaic techniques were also used. The walls were mud bricks, plastered and painted with floral motifs and marine life scenes. Other popular motifs were the egg and dart, and the Greek key. Paint applications consisted of the Dado, main field, and cornice. The "Trompe l'oeil" techniques in which paintings looked realistic were very common. Interior architecture included high windows, doors, and coffered ceilings. 

      Greek furniture consisted of tables, beds, couches or klines, storage pieces, and the Klismos chair. Furniture construction used materials such as wood, iron, bronze, copper, leather and cords. Inlays of gold, ivory, marble, and gems were also common. 

 The Klismos Chair

    This chair was made of wood and is most popular for its splayed legs. Made for women, this chair is known as one of the most graceful chairs. This style of chair and many variations are still seen today!

More Greek influence we see today...

Fun Fact - Tennessee!

      This is an exact replica of the actual Parthenon, and it's located in Tennessee! Let's go! : )

Until next class!