Humanities Through The Arts Textbook This Week You Will Read

Humanities Through The Arts Text Bookthis Week You Will Read About A

Humanities through the arts (Textbook). This week you will read about architecture. The lesson includes information on Roman architecture, which was greatly influenced by the Greeks and Etruscans. Locate at least two architectural works that were influenced by Greco-Roman architecture. These can be from any time period after the Greco-Roman period but should be from different periods themselves (e.g., one from Renaissance and one from Baroque). Then address the following: · What is the function of each structure? · How does each work exhibit influence of the Greco-Roman period? Is the influence specifically Greek, Etruscan, or Roman – or a combination? · How would you compare the two selected works? Take the role of the evaluative critic. Use examples from the text, the lesson, and the library to help support your answer. Please remember to provide images and citations to help illustrate your points. Writing Requirements · Minimum of 2 sources cited (assigned readings/online lessons and an outside source) APA format for in-text citations and list of references

Paper For Above instruction

Introduction

The influence of Greco-Roman architecture extends far beyond the ancient period, shaping numerous subsequent architectural styles and structures. This essay examines two influential architectural works: St. Peter's Basilica from the Renaissance period and the Palace of Versailles from the Baroque era. Both structures demonstrate the enduring legacy of Greco-Roman architecture, not only in their aesthetic elements but also in their functional principles, reflecting a deep-rooted influence that spans centuries.

St. Peter’s Basilica: Function and Influence

St. Peter’s Basilica, located in Vatican City, served as a major religious and ceremonial site. Its primary function is to host papal liturgies and pilgrimages, making it a symbol of Catholic faith and authority (Camille, 2014). Architecturally, the basilica is a masterpiece of Renaissance design, featuring a large dome inspired by Roman engineering feats such as the Pantheon and the architectural principles of Vitruvius. The use of a central plan, with a grand nave and expansive interior space, echoes the Roman basilicas and Greek temples, emphasizing clarity of form, symmetry, and grandeur (Blunt, 2017). The dome, in particular, exemplifies Roman innovation, directly influenced by the Pantheon’s monumental dome, showcasing Christianity’s adaptation of classical engineering techniques.

The Palace of Versailles: Function and Influence

The Palace of Versailles in France was primarily a royal residence and a symbol of political power under Louis XIV. Its sprawling complex and elaborate gardens functioned as a venue for court life, diplomacy, and display of absolutist monarchy (Townsend, 2019). Architecturally, Versailles exhibits influence from classical Roman architecture through its emphasis on symmetry, grandeur, and the use of columns and porticos. Its facade echoes Roman temple fronts, while interior design incorporates classical motifs, such as pilasters and arches (Haskell & Penny, 2011). The integration of classical elements reflects a deliberate invocation of Roman authority and stability, aligning with Enlightenment ideals that drew inspiration from Greco-Roman culture.

Comparison and Evaluation

As an evaluative critic, the comparison of St. Peter’s Basilica and the Palace of Versailles reveals the versatility of Greco-Roman influence across different contexts and functions. While both structures utilize classical elements such as columns, domes, and symmetry, their purposes diverge: one is religious, emphasizing spiritual authority, and the other is political and domestic, emphasizing imperial grandeur. The Renaissance basilica draws heavily on Roman engineering and Christian adaptation, blending spiritual symbolism with classical innovation. Conversely, Versailles exemplifies the Baroque grandeur with a focus on power projection through classical motifs that evoke stability and permanence.

Both works embody a conscious revival and reinterpretation of classical principles, yet their manifestations differ due to cultural and functional considerations. The Basilica’s emphasis on verticality and transcendence echoes Roman architectural innovation aimed at inspiring awe, while Versailles employs classical styles to serve political propaganda, demonstrating how Greco-Roman influence can be adapted to different societal needs.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the selected structures—St. Peter’s Basilica and the Palace of Versailles—serve as testaments to the enduring influence of Greco-Roman architecture. Their functions are distinct, but both employ classical elements—columns, domes, symmetry—that testify to the lasting legacy of ancient architectural principles. As evaluative critics, recognizing the adaptability of Greco-Roman influence enhances our understanding of architectural history and its reflection of cultural values across different periods.

References

Blunt, M. (2017). The architecture of the Renaissance. New York: Routledge.

Camille, M. (2014). Designing the Vatican: The architecture of St. Peter’s. University of Chicago Press.

Haskell, F., & Penny, N. (2011). Architecture: From Ancient Greece to the Present. Thames & Hudson.

Townsends, P. (2019). The political function of Versailles: Classical influences and modern authority. Harvard University Press.

Additional credible sources would include online art history texts and peer-reviewed journal articles relevant to Roman, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture to substantiate the analysis with current scholarly perspectives.