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Comparing Cultures through
Architecture: The Parthenon in
Athens and the Pantheon in
Rome
1
Written Assignment Unit 2:
University of the People
AHIST 1401
Art History
Instructor Jeanette Lamb
September 19, 2023
Comparing Cultures through
Architecture: The Parthenon in
Athens and the Pantheon in
Rome
2
Title: Comparing Cultures through Architecture: The Parthenon in Athens and the Pantheon in
Rome
Introduction
The Parthenon in Athens and the Pantheon in Rome stand as iconic symbols of ancient
Greek and Roman architecture, respectively. These two buildings showcase the distinctive styles
and functions that typify their respective cultures, while also highlighting both similarities and
differences between ancient Greece and Rome.
Body
:
According to the Internet Archive (2005), The Parthenon, constructed between 447 and
438 BC, is a Doric temple dedicated to the goddess Athena. Its architectural style is characterized
using Doric columns, a pediment adorned with intricate sculptures, and a frieze depicting scenes
from Greek mythology. The building's primary function was to house a colossal statue of Athena
and to serve as a place of worship and ritual. The Parthenon's design reflects the Greek emphasis
on symmetry, balance, and idealistic proportions, representing their pursuit of harmony and
perfection in art and architecture.
On the other hand, the Pantheon, built in 125 A.D. during the reign of Emperor Hadrian,
is a Roman temple with a radically different architectural style. It features a massive dome with a
circular opening (oculus) at the top, allowing natural light to filter into the interior. The Pantheon
was dedicated to all Roman gods and served as a temple and a public gathering space. Its design
demonstrates Roman engineering prowess, with the use of concrete and the pioneering dome
Comparing Cultures through
Architecture: The Parthenon in
Athens and the Pantheon in
Rome
3
construction. The dome's coffered ceiling not only reduced weight but also added aesthetic
appeal. The Pantheon's grandeur reflects the Roman penchant for grandiose and monumental
architecture (Ranogajec, n.d.).
Both buildings share certain architectural elements, such as columns and pediments, but
their styles are distinct. The Parthenon's Doric columns are simpler and sturdier, emphasizing
precision and order, while the Pantheon's use of the Corinthian order is more ornate and
decorative, reflecting Roman extravagance (TheCollector, n.d.).
The functions of these buildings also differ significantly. The Parthenon was more of a
religious sanctuary, symbolizing the importance of Greek polytheism and mythology in daily
life. In contrast, the Pantheon's use as a temple to honor all Roman gods underscores the
syncretic nature of Roman religion, where various gods from different cultures were embraced
(TheCollector, n.d.).
As well, the Pantheon's multifaceted function as a temple, meeting place, and engineering
marvel highlights the Roman practicality and adaptability, whereas the Parthenon's focused use
as a temple to Athena speaks to the singular devotion of the Greeks to their gods (TheCollector,
n.d.).
Conclusion
:
In conclusion, the Parthenon and the Pantheon exemplify the architectural and cultural
characteristics of ancient Greece and Rome. The Parthenon embodies Greek ideals of symmetry,
harmony, and religious devotion, while the Pantheon showcases Roman engineering prowess,
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Comparing Cultures through
Architecture: The Parthenon in
Athens and the Pantheon in
Rome
4
grandiosity, and religious inclusivity. These iconic structures serve as enduring symbols of their
respective civilizations and continue to inspire awe and admiration to this day.
Word Count: 469
Comparing Cultures through
Architecture: The Parthenon in
Athens and the Pantheon in
Rome
5
Reference
Internet Archive. (2023, July 15).
The Parthenon
. Retrieved from
https://web.archive.org/web/20151125183649/http://www.reed.edu/humanities/110Tech/Partheno
n.html
Ranogajec P. A. (n.d.).
The Pantheon (Rome)
.
Retrieved from
https://smarthistory.org/the-
pantheon/
TheCollector. (n.d.).
What is the Difference between the Parthenon and the Pantheon?
Retrieved
from
https://www.thecollector.com/differences-between-parthenon-vs-pantheon/