Our Fake History Episode #235 - Was The Parthenon Robbed? (Part II)
Sep 23, 2025
The controversial history of the Parthenon Sculptures has sparked debates for over 200 years. Lord Byron's poetic protests against Lord Elgin's actions highlight the moral complexities involved. The notion of 'saving' the marbles is challenged as modern arguments for their return evolve. Key historical moments, such as early Greek requests and legal barriers posed by the British Museum Act, reveal ongoing tensions. Notably, the podcast examines the impact of past cleaning scandals on the sculptures’ preservation and advocates for their rightful place in Athens.
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Elgin's Misfortunes Shaped Public Perception
- Lord Elgin suffered a cascade of personal and financial disasters after removing the marbles, which contemporaries framed as a curse.
- Sebastian Major notes these events fueled public perception that Elgin was morally culpable for the removals.
Byron's Poem Fueled the Outrage
- Lord Byron visited Athens in 1811 and wrote 'The Curse of Minerva' attacking Lord Elgin.
- Byron used Elgin's lost half-nose to mock him and cast the removals as sacrilege.
State Purchase Recast Elgin's Image
- After Parliament bought the marbles, defenders reframed Elgin as a savior who enriched British culture.
- Sebastian Major emphasizes this purchase converted private controversy into national pride for Britain.
