HIST 1421 – Greek and Roman Civilization

University of the People

Religion: Greek Society and Culture

Learning Journal Unit 2

 Introduction

The influence of religion on Greek society and culture was profound and multifaceted. To

understand this impact, it is essential to explore the characteristics of Greek religion and its

influence on various aspects of Greek life, particularly art and architecture. This essay will

examine whether Greek religion was monotheistic or polytheistic, supported by examples and

scholarly references, including the work of Tridimas (2021). Additionally, it will delve into the

ways Greek religious beliefs shaped their art and architecture, drawing on insights from external

resources.

Greek Religion: Monotheistic or Polytheistic

The Greek religion was decidedly polytheistic. This is evident from the diverse pantheon of

gods and goddesses worshipped in Ancient Greece, each embodying different aspects of life and

nature. For instance, Zeus was the king of the gods and ruled over the sky, Poseidon was the god

of the sea, and Athena was the goddess of wisdom and war. These deities were not only

worshipped individually but also had temples dedicated to them, reflecting their distinct roles

and importance in Greek mythology and society (Tridimas, 2021).

Moreover, the absence of a unified religious doctrine or a professional priestly class in

Ancient Greece, as discussed by Tridimas (2021), further underscores the polytheistic nature of

Greek religion. The overlapping jurisdictions of different gods, without a central religious

authority or doctrine, is a characteristic feature of polytheistic belief systems.

Influence of Greek Religion on Art and Architecture

 The profound impact of Greek religious beliefs on art and architecture is evident in various

forms, from temple designs to sculptures and paintings.

Temple Architecture:

The design and construction of Greek temples were deeply rooted in their religious beliefs.

Temples like the Parthenon in Athens, dedicated to Athena, were not just places of worship but

also symbols of the city's wealth, culture, and devotion to the gods. The Parthenon's architectural

elements, such as the Doric columns and the use of entasis (a slight curvature in columns to

correct optical illusion), reflect a blend of aesthetic beauty and religious significance (Tridimas,

2021).

The Metropolitan Museum of Art notes that Greek temples were designed as homes for the

deities, with the inner chamber housing the cult statue. This architectural focus on the deity's

dwelling place highlights the Greeks' desire to honor and house their gods in structures that

mirrored their grandeur and importance (The Metropolitan Museum of Art, n.d.).

Sculpture and Iconography:

Greek sculpture was heavily influenced by religious themes. Statues of gods and goddesses

were not mere representations but were believed to embody the divine presence. The idealized

forms of these sculptures, as seen in the works of Phidias and Praxiteles, reflect the Greeks'

attempt to capture the perfection of the gods in human form (Britannica, n.d.).

The use of mythological themes in Greek art, as observed in vase paintings and friezes,

served not only as decoration but also as a means of conveying religious stories and values.

Scenes from the Trojan War, the labors of Heracles, and the adventures of Dionysus were popular

motifs, each carrying religious significance and moral lessons (Britannica, n.d.).
Integration of Religion and Public Life:

Greek art and architecture were not confined to temples but were integrated into public

spaces, reflecting the omnipresence of religion in Greek life. Public buildings, like the Agora in

Athens, often included religious elements in their design, symbolizing the intertwining of civic

and religious life (Tridimas, 2021).

Religious festivals, such as the Panathenaic Festival in Athens, were occasions for artistic

expression through processions, music, and drama. These festivals were not only religious

ceremonies but also opportunities for the display of artistic talent and communal bonding (The

Metropolitan Museum of Art, n.d.).

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Greek religion was polytheistic, with a pantheon of gods and goddesses

worshipped individually. This polytheism significantly influenced Greek art and architecture, as

seen in the numerous temples and sculptures dedicated to these deities, reflecting the deep

interconnection between religion, art, and daily life in Ancient Greece.

References

Tridimas, G. (2021). Religion without doctrine or clergy: The case of Ancient Greece. Journal of

Institutional Economics, 18(4), 677-691.

https://pure.ulster.ac.uk/ws/portalfiles/portal/99858243/religion_without_doctrine_or_clergy_the

_case_of_ancient_greece.pdf

The Metropolitan Museum of Art. (n.d.). Greek Gods and Religious Practices. Retrieved from

https://www.metmuseum.org/toah/hd/grlg/hd_grlg.htm

Britannica. (n.d.). Greek religion - Myths, Rituals, Temples. Retrieved from

https://www.britannica.com/topic/Greek-religion/Religious-art-and-iconography