NJ

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.