A History of the World in 100 Objects
Parthenon Sculpture: Centaur + Lapith
Feb 23, 2010
This podcast explores the emotionally charged sculptures of the Parthenon and the controversy surrounding their location in London. It delves into the portrayal of battle in ancient Greek culture and the significance of the sculptures in shaping Athenian identity. The symbolism of the Centaur and Lapith sculptures is examined, as well as the controversies and restoration efforts surrounding the Parthenon throughout history.
14:11
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Quick takeaways
- The Parthenon sculptures, also known as the Elgin marbles, have remained a subject of controversy as Greece seeks their return from the British Museum in London, highlighting the conflicting views on cultural ownership and heritage.
- The Parthenon sculptures symbolize the ancient Greek culture of the 5th century BC, portraying gods, heroes, and daily life through intricate scenes that embody the pursuit of harmony, balance, and the victory of reason over chaos.
Deep dives
The Parthenon sculptures and their controversial location
The podcast episode explores the controversy surrounding the location of the Parthenon sculptures, also known as the Elgin marbles. The Greek government insists on their return to Athens, while the British museums trustees believe they should remain in London as part of world culture. The sculptures symbolize the tensions and conflicts of ancient Greek culture and serve as a rallying cry for modern Greeks.
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