AHIST 1401

Art History
University of the People
Written Assignment Unit 2
Instructor: Passent Chahine
April 24 2024
Introduction

This paper will compare two renowned ancient structures: the Parthenon and the Pantheon. We

will explore the key similarities in their origins and characteristics, as well as the notable

differences between the two. Despite the architectural disparities, the two buildings are often

confused due to their shared features. We will begin with an overview of the Parthenon,

including its history, architecture, purpose, and cultural significance

Body

Famous architectural structures that highlight the philosophical, religious, and cultural

distinctions and parallels between classical Greece and Rome are the Parthenon in Athens and

the Pantheon in Rome. Even though the two buildings have different styles and purposes, they

have both had a big impact on architectural history and provide insights into the societies in

which they were built.

Constructed between 447 and 432 BCE, the Parthenon is a representation of classical Greek

architecture and culture (Reed College, n.d.). The magnificent temple, built in the Doric order

and dedicated to the goddess Athena, the patroness of Athens, features classical Greek

architectural features like symmetry, proportion, and harmony. Greek mythology is portrayed in

exquisite sculptures and friezes adorning the exterior, underscoring the stories' centrality to

Greek culture and their influence on literature and art (Reed College, n.d.). With its enormous

statue of Athena, the Parthenon was a place of worship that symbolized the Athenians' love and

respect for their city (Reed College, n.d.).

Its significance as a sacred site and a representation of Athenian authority and prestige is

highlighted by its elevated placement on the Acropolis (Reed College, n.d.). On the other hand,
the Pantheon, which Emperor Hadrian rebuilt circa 125 CE after it had been initially built by

Marcus Agrippa in 27 BCE, exemplifies the magnificence and inventiveness of classical Roman

architecture (Smarthistory, n.d.). While the Pantheon is renowned for its enormous dome with a

central oculus, the Parthenon is primarily known for its post-and-lintel design.

This innovative design showcases the Romans' proficiency with concrete and their aptitude for

crafting expansive, airy interior areas (Smarthistory, n.d.). In keeping with the Romans'

polytheistic beliefs and open-minded approach to religion, the Pantheon was first constructed as

a temple dedicated to all the gods (Smarthistory, n.d.). Its adaptability and lasting significance

were demonstrated when it later became a Christian church. The imposing façade, with its grand

entrance and enormous columns, communicates the might and authority of the Roman Empire

(Smarthistory, n.d.).

The religious purposes, column usage, and symbolic significance in their respective cultures are

among the commonalities between the Parthenon and the Pantheon. Their architectural designs

and styles, however, show clear distinctions. The Parthenon symbolizes the Greeks' devotion to

harmony and precision, while the Pantheon shows the Romans' mastery of engineering and their

inventive use of materials and forms

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, two outstanding representations of the artistic and architectural accomplishments

of classical Greece and Rome are the Parthenon and the Pantheon. Greek symmetry and harmony

are embodied in the Parthenon, while Roman mastery of concrete and ambitious interior design

are emphasized in the Pantheon. As timeless representations of the both structures never fail to

enthrall and inspire.

References

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

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

Parthenon.html

Smarthistory. (n.d.). The Pantheon. Retrieved from https://smarthistory.org/the-pantheon/