What Would the Greeks Think of Roman Architecture?

Rachael Lofgran • September 16, 2023

Romans were heavily influenced by Greek art and architecture, but would the Greeks have approved?

If the Greeks were to observe Roman architecture and the new relationship between form and function, as well as the use of decorative pilasters, their reactions would depend on the specific context and individuals involved. However, we can speculate on some potential perspectives based on historical knowledge.

The Greeks had a significant influence on Roman architecture, particularly in the earlier stages. The Romans borrowed heavily from Greek architectural elements and styles, such as the use of columns and orders like Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian. However, the Romans also developed their own unique architectural language and made notable advancements.

Regarding the new relationship between form and function in Roman architecture, the Greeks might appreciate the practicality and efficiency that the Romans often sought. The Romans were known for their engineering prowess and their ability to construct large, functional structures such as amphitheaters, aqueducts, and baths. The Greeks, who also valued function in their architecture, might recognize and admire the Romans' accomplishments in this regard.

When it comes to decorative pilasters, which are shallow rectangular columns attached to a wall, the Greeks might have mixed reactions. The Greeks did not commonly employ pilasters in their architecture; they preferred the use of freestanding columns. However, they did incorporate engaged columns into some structures, such as the Erechtheion on the Athenian Acropolis. The decorative elements of the pilasters might be appreciated by the Greeks as an extension of their own architectural embellishments.

However, the Greeks might also find the Roman use of pilasters excessive or too decorative for their tastes. The Greeks generally valued simplicity, harmony, and balance in their architecture, focusing on the beauty of proportion and the idealized human form. The Romans, on the other hand, tended to be more lavish and grandiose in their architectural expression, often incorporating ornate details and extensive decorative elements. This stark difference in approach might cause the Greeks to view the Roman use of decorative pilasters as excessive or even ostentatious.

Overall, while the Greeks might appreciate certain aspects of Roman architecture, they might also find some elements deviating from their own architectural principles. However, it's important to note that these perspectives are speculative, and individual opinions might have varied among the Greeks themselves.The body content of your post goes here. To edit this text, click on it and delete this default text and start typing your own or paste your own from a different source.

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By Rachael Lofgran • September 26, 2023

Mythology and classical themes played a significant role in Renaissance art, as artists of the time looked to ancient Greek and Roman stories, gods, and heroes for inspiration. The revival of these ancient narratives and their incorporation into artistic works became a prominent feature of Renaissance art, reflecting the period's fascination with the classical world and its ideals. During the Renaissance, there was a renewed interest in the literature, philosophy, and art of ancient Greece and Rome. Artists and intellectuals sought to emulate the achievements of classical antiquity and viewed it as a golden age of knowledge and creativity. They believed that by studying and emulating the classical world, they could achieve similar greatness in their own time. Mythology, with its rich cast of gods, goddesses, heroes, and epic narratives, provided a vast pool of subject matter for Renaissance artists. They drew from ancient texts such as Ovid's "Metamorphoses," Virgil's "Aeneid," and Homer's "Iliad" and "Odyssey" to explore and depict mythological stories and characters. Artists often infused their works with allegorical or symbolic meanings, using mythological figures to represent human virtues, vices, or ideals. For example, Venus, the goddess of love, might symbolize beauty or the transformative power of desire, while Hercules, known for his strength and heroism, could represent the virtues of bravery and moral fortitude. The incorporation of mythology and classical themes allowed artists to explore a wide range of subjects, from grand mythological narratives to intimate scenes of daily life. Mythological scenes provided artists with the opportunity to depict powerful emotions, dramatic conflicts, and supernatural elements, allowing for the expression of deep human emotions and psychological insights. In addition to mythology, Renaissance artists also depicted classical gods and goddesses in individual portraits or as part of larger compositions. They sought to capture the idealized beauty and grace associated with these divine beings, drawing inspiration from ancient sculptures and texts. These representations of gods and goddesses often conveyed a sense of divine presence and elevated the subject matter to a spiritual and transcendental level. The use of mythology and classical themes in Renaissance art was not limited to painting but also extended to sculpture, architecture, and decorative arts. Sculptors recreated mythological scenes in marble or bronze, while architects incorporated classical motifs and references into their buildings, such as columns, pediments, and friezes. The revival of mythology and classical themes in Renaissance art not only reflected the period's fascination with the ancient world but also served broader cultural and intellectual purposes. It provided artists with a rich visual vocabulary and a connection to the ideals of ancient civilization. It also allowed for the exploration of complex human emotions, moral dilemmas, and philosophical concepts, providing viewers with a deeper understanding of the human condition. The incorporation of mythology and classical themes in Renaissance art played a vital role in the revival of ancient stories and gods. It allowed artists to connect with the greatness of classical antiquity, explore powerful narratives and emotions, and express complex ideas through visual representations. The use of mythology in Renaissance art contributed to the cultural and intellectual richness of the period, leaving a lasting impact on Western art and culture.