Assignment for Midterm 2 - Greek and Roman Arts

1. What did the Greeks and Romans use in their sculptures?

The Greeks used a variety of materials for their large sculptures: limestone, marble, wood,
bronze, terra cotta, chryselephantine, and even iron. As for Romans, the Romans worked
with stone, precious metals, glass, and terracotta but favored bronze and marble above all
else for their finest work. However, as the metal has always been in high demand for re-
use, most of the surviving examples of Roman sculpture are in marble.

2. What was the first monumental sculpture in Ancient Greece?

In ancient Greece the first monumental sculptures were

the Kouros. These were statues of nude men or boys and
are found all across Greece. Some believe that these
statues were meant to represent the god Apollo while
others contend that they were grave markers.

3. How did Greek architecture start?

Greek architecture has its roots in the ancient civilizations that inhabited the Aegean
region, including the Minoans and Mycenaeans. However, the development of the
distinctive style of Greek architecture that we know today began during the Archaic
period (c. 800-500 BCE) and continued through the Classical period (c. 500-323 BCE) and
Hellenistic period (c. 323-31 BCE).

During the Archaic period, Greek architecture was characterized by simple structures
made of wood and clay. As the use of stone became more prevalent, architects began to
experiment with new styles and techniques. The development of the Doric, Ionic, and
Corinthian orders of architecture occurred during the Classical period, each with its
distinctive features and proportions.

Greek architects were also influenced by the cultural and political events of the time. The
construction of public buildings, temples, and other structures was often used as a way to
showcase the wealth and power of the city-states. The rise of democracy in Athens also
led to a shift towards public spaces that could be used by all citizens, such as the agora
and stoa.
 Overall, Greek architecture evolved as architects and builders experimented with new
materials, techniques, and styles. The resulting structures were not only functional but
also served as symbols of the culture, society, and values of ancient Greece.

4. How was Greek architecture inspired by nature?

Greek architecture was heavily inspired by nature and the natural world. Greek architects
sought to create buildings that harmonized with their surroundings and reflected the
beauty and balance found in nature.

One way in which Greek architecture was inspired by nature was through the use of
natural materials such as marble, limestone, and wood. These materials were chosen not
only for their durability but also for their aesthetic qualities. For example, the white
marble used in many Greek temples was meant to mimic the color of clouds or the pure
light of the sun.

In addition, Greek architects often incorporated natural elements into their designs, such
as columns that were modeled after the trunks of trees or friezes that depicted scenes
from nature, such as the famous Panathenaic procession on the Parthenon frieze.

Overall, Greek architecture was deeply influenced by the natural world, and this can be
seen in the use of natural materials, proportions, and motifs that sought to create
buildings that were not just functional, but also beautiful and harmonious.

5. What influenced Roman architecture?

The Romans were heavily influenced by Greek architectural styles, particularly in their use
of columns, pediments, and friezes. However, the Romans adapted these styles to suit
their own needs and tastes, incorporating features such as the arch and the dome.

Another important influence on Roman architecture was the Etruscan civilization, which
preceded the Roman Empire in Italy. The Etruscans were skilled builders, and their use of
vaults, arches, and stone construction techniques influenced Roman architects. For
example, the famous Colosseum in Rome, which features a series of arches and vaults,
was likely influenced by Etruscan architecture.