Idealism In The Parthenon

Parthenon, the temple dedicated to the city’s patron goddess Athena, is rested atop on the Acropolis of Athens. Built during the High Classical period of 447 and 432 BCE, built by two architects - Kallikratis and Iktinos, the project was overseen by Sculptor Phiedias. Extravagantly built, through its cost, skills, and acuity of both architects – seen in the precision and complicated mathematics present in its proportion to its magnificent architectural ornament and sculptures. The purpose of this essay is to show how the Parthenon reflects Athenians idealism and what elements helped to shape its grand structure. Apart from being built to house the statue of Athena, used to proclaim to the world the success of Athens in defeating the invading Persians and symbolizing the wealth and power, the city possessed. The Parthenon was also, the physical symbolism of Greeks values, beliefs, myths, and ideologies.

During the Dorians and Archaic Periods, Greek Temples were almost constructed with mud bricks and wood. However, as temples became more complicated and bigger, stones replaced wood. Being the largest Doric and the first marble Greek temple to be built, the Parthenon adopted the post and lintel construction

When the Parthenon was built, democracy was at its centre stage. Athens being a democratic city and were proud of their fundamental principles that were entirely different from other city states. The temple, was the result of negotiations between its people rather than the idea of one architect. Since the Athenians had the rights to vote for every monument and element in the Parthenon, the temple was the result of not one man but of the democracy that was present. The monument was built when the political system was democratic. Athens was regarded as the cradle of democracy – which led to developments and achievements that were previously deemed impossible in architecture like the