Send them back: The Parthenon Marbles should be returned to Athens

Introduction to the Debate

  • Topic: The Parthenon marbles (also known as the Elgin marbles) should be returned to Athens.

  • Location: Kagen Hall, Central London.

  • Panelists:

    • For the motion: Andrew George (British MP, Chairman of Marbles Reunited) and Stephen Fry (Broadcaster).

    • Against the motion: Tristram Hunt (British MP and Historian) and Felipe Fernandez-Armesto (Professor of History).

  • Format: Each speaker presents their argument followed by audience interaction and a final vote.

Arguments For Returning the Marbles

Andrew George's Opening Statement

  • Reunification as the Right Approach

    • Advocates for returning the marbles as a non-humiliating action that will not lead to widespread repatriation of museum artifacts.

    • Emphasizes that this act would fulfill moral obligations and correct historical wrongs, acknowledging the marbles were taken during a period of occupation.

  • Concept of a Universal Museum

    • Argues that the idea of a universal museum is a modern construct, and reunifying the marbles respects their historical context.

    • Proposes that this act would enhance Britain's reputation and establish a cultural exchange, where the UK could display Greek artifacts in return.

  • Legal Legitimacy vs. Moral Responsibility

    • Critiques the claim that Lord Elgin's firman granted him comprehensive rights to remove the sculptures.

    • Believes that artifacts belong where they were originally created and should be seen in their historical context.

Stephen Fry's Arguments

  • Cultural Context Emphasis

    • Asserts the importance of returning the marbles to Athens for cultural integrity.

    • Suggests showcasing a film about the marbles’ history in the British Museum, enhancing public knowledge while returning artifacts.

  • Historical Significance

    • Stresses that the Parthenon marbles are intrinsically linked to Athenian identity and should be admired in their original context.

    • Compares the acquisition to transactions during occupations by oppressive regimes, making a moral case against the legitimacy of keeping the marbles.

  • Call for Class

    • Proposes that Britain should demonstrate grace and cultural pride by returning the marbles as a gesture of goodwill.

Arguments Against Returning the Marbles

Tristram Hunt's Opening Statement

  • Legal Acquisition Defense

    • Argues the legitimacy of Elgin's acquisition, supported by the laws of the time under Ottoman rule.

    • Points out that Greece has not formally challenged the ownership in international law, solidifying the British Museum's right to keep the marbles.

  • Cultural Cosmopolitanism

    • Believes the marbles serve a greater purpose in a universal museum context, contributing to global cultural exchange.

    • Warns that returning the marbles opens Pandora's box, potentially leading to calls for widespread returns of other artifacts globally, which would hinder cultural sharing.

Felipe Fernandez-Armesto's Arguments

  • Global Significance of the British Museum

    • Describes the British Museum as a universal repository benefiting the entire world, not just Britain or Greece.

    • Emphasizes the comparative analysis that enriches visitors' understanding of civilizations around the globe.

  • Importance of Context

    • Suggests that the marbles belong to a discourse on their historical significance when viewed alongside similar artifacts worldwide.

    • Argues the museum promotes an appreciation that transcends nationalism, focusing on shared heritage.

Audience Interaction Highlights

  • Passion and Pride

    • Audience members express deep emotional connections to the marbles, questioning their legality and care in Britain versus Greece.

    • Some argue for the integrity of the artworks as interconnected pieces rather than fragments scattered in various museums.

  • Moral and Ethical Considerations

    • The audience raises the importance of ethics in decisions made regarding artifacts taken during occupations.

    • Questions of nationalism versus cosmopolitanism come forth, with many advocating for returning the marbles based on moral grounds.

Debate Outcome

  • Voting Results

    • Initial Vote: For motion - 196; Against motion - 202; Don't know - 158.

    • Post-Debate Vote: For motion - 384; Against motion - 125; Don't know - 24.

    • Significant shift in opinions, indicating a deeper impact from the arguments presented.

Conclusion

  • Acknowledgment of the passionate debate surrounding the Parthenon marbles reflects the ongoing struggle between cultural heritage, legality, and moral responsibility.

  • The final vote highlights a notable change in perspective influenced by the arguments and emotional appeals made by the speakers.