The Forum The Acropolis: Cradle of democracy
Aug 25, 2018
Join Paul Cartledge, Emeritus Professor of Greek culture, as he explores the profound roots of democracy tied to the Acropolis. Andronike Makres shares insights on ancient inscriptions and laws that shaped Athenian society, while Demetrios Papageorgiou discusses the engineering secrets behind the Parthenon’s enduring beauty. They delve into the Acropolis's historical transformations, from its role in democracy and theatre to its modern significance. Discover the tensions of pride and decay woven into this iconic monument!
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Geometry Oriented The Acropolis Experience
- The Acropolis buildings were laid out with geometric balance so visitors view each in a three-quarter perspective.
- Lines from the entrance define points that sit roughly 30 degrees apart for a harmonious ensemble.
Sculpture Told Civic And Mythic Stories
- Parthenon sculpture combined myth, civic pride and possibly real Athenians in the frieze, making it unique in Greek temple art.
- The temple's pediments, metopes and frieze tell stories of gods, battles and Athenian identity.
Optical Corrections Create Visual Harmony
- The Parthenon uses deliberate optical curvature and entasis so no line appears perfectly straight to the eye.
- These subtle distortions create tension, upward movement and visual harmony across the structure.
