06_GREEK PERIOD

Introduction

• Ancient Greece flourished on the Greek peninsula, parts of Asia Minor, north coast of Africa, and western Mediterranean until Roman dominance in 146 AD.

• Characterized by construction methods adhering to strict rules of form and proportion.

Historical Background

Origins

• Greek civilization originated from the Dorians who defeated the Myceneans.

• Greece was made up of independent city-states (polis).

Religion and Culture

• Greeks worshipped numerous gods and goddesses depicted in human form.

• Rituals included sacrifices, festivals, athletic competitions, and theatrical performances.

Philosophy and Art Ideals

• Emphasis on the potential of humanity spurred creative expression.

• Belief in the ideal form as expressed by Plato.

• Development of the 'nude' as a prominent artistic form, showcasing balance and moderation based on the "Golden Mean" philosophy.

Periods of Greek Civilization

Historical Division

• Dark Age/Geometric (1000-700 BC)

• Archaic (700-480 BC)

• Hellenic/Classical (480-323 BC)

• Hellenistic (323-31 BC)

Dark Age/Geometric Period

• Term refers to the period following the Bronze Age Collapse; lack of written records characterizes this era.

• Features included: political fragmentation, decline in trade, economic downturn, and deterioration of material culture.

Archaic Period (700-480 BC)

• Significant architectural developments with the construction of the oldest Doric and Ionic temples.

• Advancement in sculpture, notably with life-size stone statues and simplified formalized drapery.

• Introduction of the Kouros figure, representing youthful males, accompanied by the Archaic Smile.

• Innovations in vase painting: black and red figureware.

• A period marked by increased population and the establishment of city-states, laying groundwork for Classical Greece.

• Development of the Greek alphabet and earliest literature.

Classical Period (480-323 BC)

• Era characterized by conflict (Greeks vs Persians, Athenians vs Spartans) alongside political and cultural achievements.

• Foundation of Western philosophy established through Socratic thought.

• Artistic developments highlighted by contrapposto in sculptures and expansion of Athenian architecture, including the rebuilt Acropolis.

Hellenistic Period (323-31 BC)

• Period following Alexander the Great's death, converting into a time of cultural amalgamation.

• Growth of Hellenistic culture centered in cities like Alexandria and Antioch.

• Sculptural renditions became more emotional and realistic.

Furniture and Daily Life

Overview of Greek Furniture

• Influenced by Egyptian styles yet evolved into a unique Greek aesthetic by the Classical period.

• Characteristics included elegant curves, comfort, and functionality, avoiding over-decorative designs.

Types of Furniture

• Bathron: A small table-like structure with straight legs.

• Thronos: An ornately decorated throne, reserved for the elite.

• Kline: A couch with a headboard and backrest, often used for lounging.

• Klismos: Curved-backed chairs preferred by women, typically with cushions.

• Trapeza: Functional dining tables, low and often portable.

Greek Culture and Community Life

• Ancient Greeks were deeply engaged in philosophical discourse, often in public spaces like the agora.

• Valued beauty expressed through varied forms of art, literature, and theater, often sharing stories and legends.