Though imagined and constructed
thousands of years ago, Greek architecture still largely influences us today. From the time that pen was put to paper (or
chisel to stone, as would be more apt in this case), the Greek’s building style
was meant to both impress and inspire.
It differed from that of the later Baroque style which was focused on
intimidating those who dared disapprove because the fluted columns and stately
demeanor of the Greek’s buildings welcomed those who entered to a level of
higher thinking. When I think of words
to describe what famous ancient architects, like Hippodamus or Ictinus, were
trying to convey, I think of justice, order, and enlightenment. Is it such a wonder then that many national
buildings or important religious monuments were built with Greek undertones? (If you want to explore more in detail, click
here). This summer, I toured around some
more historic parts of the United States.
Here are a few of my adventures:
Even a place as common as the St. Louis Cardinals baseball stadium has subtle traces of the Greeks.
Me at the Nauvoo LDS Temple
Your comment about the nature of baroque artwork stands out to me. When I think of the height of Greek and baroque architecture, I see two distinct situations. The Greeks were truly great, and therefore could focus on that greatness with a little egotism as well. But the baroque artists were in a defensive stance against the reformers of the church and they could feel the heat. Perhaps it's the lack of confidence that made baroque architects put up a tough front and feign intimidation.
ReplyDeleteMaybe the baroque builders were trying to compensate for something they didn't have. The Greeks already had enlightened ideas and ideals, making intimidation unnecessary; their ideas' power was already apparent.
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