Intelligence Squared
Return or Retain? The Parthenon Marbles Debate, with Ed Vaizey and Noel Malcolm
Nov 5, 2023
In this thought-provoking discussion, Ed Vaizey, former UK Government Culture and Digital Minister, and Noel Malcolm, Senior Research Fellow at All Souls College, dive into the controversial debate over the Parthenon Marbles. They explore the historical context of their removal by Lord Elgin and critique the British Museum's stewardship. Significant points include the evolving perspectives on ownership, cultural significance, and potential collaborative solutions for the marbles' future. Both guests advocate for a nuanced approach to restitution that respects history and cultural integrity.
37:20
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Quick takeaways
- The podcast highlights the importance of reuniting the Parthenon marbles in Greece, emphasizing their unique status as a piece of art and proposing collaboration between Greek and British institutions to jointly own and care for the sculptures.
- The podcast disputes the claim that the Parthenon marbles were stolen, providing evidence that Lord Elgin had permission from the Ottoman authorities to remove the stones, with his actions aiming to protect the sculptures from further destruction during a time of ruin and loss on the Acropolis.
Deep dives
Reuniting the Parthenon Marbles in Greece
The first main idea discussed in the podcast episode is the argument for reuniting the Parthenon marbles in Greece. The podcast highlights the importance of seeing the sculptures as a unique piece of art and emphasizes the idea of reunifying the sculptures in the place where they were created. The podcast suggests the establishment of an independent trust that could jointly own and care for the marbles, involving both Greek and British collaboration. It also mentions the potential for an exchange of iconic objects between the British Museum and the Acropolis Museum in Athens.
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