Humanities Study Guide

Humanities Study Guide

Sculpture Sculptures – either freestanding or attached – were often used to decorate the pediment or frieze on sacred Greek buildings. Sculptures were statements of civic pride and achievement, and they depicted the lives of Greek gods and goddesses. Music Music during this time functioned similarly to how we use it today. It was present in marriages, ceremonies, theater, and poetry. The lyre , a stringed instrument resembling a harp, was a common feature along with double reed pipes. Theater The Greeks created the foundations for the theater experience we know today. They built amphitheaters for people to watch actors perform and recite poetry. The themes of these performances centered around the retelling of stories of the gods they worshipped. Most notably, the Greeks created tragedies, comedy plays, and two forms of dramas. The two most popular playwrights of the time were Sophocles and Aristophanes . Greek mythology influenced the plots of the tragedies, which had themes of moral right and wrongs, and unhappy endings. Comedy plays contained songs, dances, and costumes. There were often moments of verbal debate or challenges with fast-changing scenes and fantasy elements. Architecture The Classical Greeks are perhaps best known for their temple architecture and sculptures. These works reveal an intense religious devotion and emphasis on the human form. The most common style was with the use of posts (columns) and lintels (beams) construction. We can see examples of these in the Parthenon and Acropolis. The elements of Greek architecture are most notable in the post formations. The tops tell the difference of what the purpose of the structure is. For example, the Doric order communicates solid strength and simplicity. The Ionic order suggests refinement and sophistication. The Corinthian order projects wealth and grandeur. 2.3 The Classical Era - Ancient Rome Architecture Rome is known for the invention of the arch . It could bear more weight than Greek post and lintel techniques, thus allowing Romans to build more daring structures. These buildings with arches often served multiple functions instead of just one.

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