ARCHITECTURE

Classic Greek Medieval Architecture and Gothic Cathedrals

Abstract

The Classic Greek architecture and medieval gothic cathedrals are of great historical importance. The examples of Classic Greek architecture include the Parthenon, the temple of Zeus, the temple of Hera, and The Temple of Hephaestus. The examples of gothic cathedrals include Amiens Cathedrals and Salisbury. These pieces of architecture were constructed several years ago. The ancient cathedrals and temples housed several integral sculptures. Therefore, medieval gothic cathedrals dominate the skyline of middle England. Cathedrals are symbols of the dominance of religion in the medieval society. Nevertheless, Classic Greek architecture comprises an important part of Greek history as well as Greek history.

Table of Contents

Abstractii

Introduction4

Discussion5

Characteristics of Classical Greek and Medieval Gothic Architecture5

The Parthenon5

The Temple of Hera5

The Temple of Zeus5

The Temple of Hephaestus6

Salisbury6

Amiens Cathedrals6

Architectural Innovations7

Symbolism and Integral Sculptures7

Conclusion8

References9

Classic Greek Medieval Architecture and Gothic Cathedrals

Introduction

Classic Greek temple architecture includes several exquisite temples. These temples include the temple of Hera, the Temple of Zeus, the Temple of Hephaestus, the Parthenon, and others. The well-known medieval cathedrals include Salisbury, Amiens Cathedrals and others.

The Parthenon was built in 447-432 BC. The building of the Parthenon was a critical political subject not only for Athens but for all Greece. The Parthenon was built after the war. The Parthenon is a temple that was dedicated to the Greek goddess Athena. The temple of Hera is another oldest Classic Greek architecture. It is also called the Haraion. It is widely believed by historians and experts that the Temple of Hera was built for worshipping both Zeus and Hera until the construction of a temple specifically for Zeus. It was constructed about 570 - 560 by the Samians, Theodorus, and Rhoecus (Darling, 2004).

The Temple of Zeus is one of the most imposing monuments of Greece. This temple is also known as the Olympieum. The temple of Zeus was built in 174 B.C.E; 132 C.E. It was built in order to honor the chief of gods. The Temple of Hephaestus was built in circa 449 B.C.E. Hephaestus was a Greek god of volcanoes and metalworking. He was the only Olympian god who was physically defective. The temple of Hephaestus is also dedicated to Athena Ergane. Athena is a city's patron goddess who is responsible for pottery and other crafts.

Gothic style dominated the architecture of Western Europe for nearly four hundred years. Gothic architects designed several town, halls, royal palaces, courthouses and hospitals. The Gothic style attained its most meaningful expression in the service of the Church. The Church was the most creative architect of the middle ages. The Salisbury Cathedral is one of the unique medieval English cathedrals. It is an elegant Gothic edifice. The cathedral was built in the second quarter of the thirteen century. The Salisbury cathedral has been dedicated to Virgin Mary. Amiens Cathedral is another largest classic' Gothic cathedral of the 13th century. It is a more beautiful specimen of Gothic architecture (Dixon & Durston, 1999).

Discussion

Characteristics of Classical Greek and Medieval Gothic Architecture

The Parthenon

The Parthenon was constructed in the ...