AHIST 1401

Art History
University of the People
Learning Journal Unit 2
Instructor: Passent Chahine
April 21 2024
What were your impressions of ancient Greece and Rome before you began this course?

Before taking this course, my views on ancient Greece and Rome were mostly influenced by

popular culture and media. I was aware of their significant contributions to philosophy, literature,

and politics, but my understanding of their art and architecture was limited to a few well-known

examples.

How has studying their art and architecture changed your impressions of these ancient

cultures?

Studying the art and architecture of these ancient cultures has deepened my appreciation and

understanding of their immense impact on the world. Exploring these subjects has allowed me to

recognize the extraordinary talent and creativity of their architects and artists, and how their

works reflect the values and beliefs of their respective cultures. Moreover, the cultural

achievements of ancient Greece and Rome form the foundation of European civilization.

The classical architecture of ancient Greece has captured people's imagination for centuries, and

Greek architecture had a profound influence on Roman architecture. By examining the

characteristics of ancient Greek and Roman architecture, I've discovered their many similarities.

Greek and Roman architecture share many characteristics and both still impress and captivate

people today. Each structure is a masterpiece in its own right, as the architects of ancient Greece

and Rome strived to make their designs unique, exceptional, and innovative.

What specific monuments, sculptures or paintings helped you change your thoughts?

Certain monuments, sculptures, and paintings have significantly shaped my understanding of

these ancient cultures. The Parthenon in Athens left a strong impression on me, as its meticulous
design and construction, along with its historical and cultural importance, deepened my respect

for ancient Greek civilization. Similarly, visiting the Colosseum in Rome gave me a greater

appreciation for the scale and engineering prowess of the Roman Empire.

The Laocoon and His Sons sculpture from classical Greece and the frescoes from the Villa of the

Mysteries in Pompeii were especially impactful. The Laocoon sculpture's dramatic depiction of

pain and sorrow highlighted art's power to convey the complexities of the human experience.

The vibrant colors and detailed frescoes from the Villa of the Mysteries provided valuable

insight into ancient Roman customs and perspectives.

Additionally, the Pantheon, known as the "Temple of All Gods," was a deeply moving example

of Roman history and design. This structure showcases the Romans' ambition to emphasize the

power and grandeur of humanity. The ornate decoration, embellishments, and commitment to

exact symmetry in these buildings make them symbolic and unforgettable (Parthenon, n.d. and

Ranogajec, n.d.).

References

Parthenon. (n.d.). The Parthenon. Retrieved from

https://web.archive.org/web/20151125183649/http://www.reed.edu/humanities/110Tech/

Parthenon.html

Ranogajec, P.A. (n.d.). The Pantheon (Rome). Smarthistory. Retrieved from

https://smarthistory.org/the-pantheon/