Overview
This lecture covers the history, design, and cultural significance of Nashville's Parthenon, a full-scale replica of the ancient Greek Parthenon, from its origins to its completion and current role as an art museum.
Origins of the Parthenon in Athens
- The original Parthenon was built in 5th century BC Athens to honor the goddess Athena, the city's protector.
- It was constructed under Pericles after the Persian Wars to celebrate Athenian victory and prominence.
- The building showcases a blend of Doric and Ionic architectural styles and features deliberate structural adjustments for visual perfection.
- The Parthenon represents the height of the Greek "Golden Age," a period influential in mathematics, philosophy, literature, and government systems.
The Parthenon's Later History
- After the 15th century, Athens became part of the Ottoman Empire, and the Parthenon was converted into a church, then a mosque.
- In 1687, an explosion caused by stored gunpowder severely damaged the Parthenon during a Venetian attack.
- Despite its ruin, the Parthenon inspired widespread romanticism and neoclassical trends in Europe and America.
Nashville’s Parthenon: Construction and Purpose
- Nashville, nicknamed "Athens of the South," built its Parthenon for the Tennessee Centennial and International Exposition in 1897.
- It is the only exact replica of the ancient Parthenon and was constructed to celebrate education and local pride.
- Nearly two million people visited the exposition, reflecting the building’s cultural impact.
Architectural Features and Artistic Efforts
- Sculptors were commissioned to recreate the Parthenon’s decorative statues using molds from original fragments.
- Great care was taken to ensure architectural and artistic accuracy, including imported casts from London.
The Art Museum and the Athena Statue
- James M. K. Cowen donated an art collection to the city for display in the Parthenon, with the requirement of a secure gallery and anonymity.
- The full-size statue of Athena, created by sculptor Alan LeQuire, was completed and installed between 1982 and 1990, with finishing touches added over 12 years.
- The completed statue resembles the ancient original and remains a central feature of Nashville’s Parthenon.
Present Day and Future Aspirations
- The Parthenon continues to serve as Nashville's art museum, hosting permanent collections and rotating exhibits.
- The replica still lacks one final architectural element, the Ionic frieze, which is hoped to be added in the future.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Parthenon — A temple built in Athens in the 5th century BC to honor Athena.
- Doric — A style of Greek architecture characterized by simple, sturdy columns.
- Ionic — A more ornate Greek architectural style, often with scrolls on the column capitals.
- Pediment — The triangular upper part of a Greek building’s front, often decorated with sculpture.
- Naos — The inner chamber of a classical temple, where the statue of the deity was placed.
- Frieze — A horizontal band of sculpted or painted decoration on a building.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Visit the Parthenon to view the permanent collection and Athena statue.
- Await future updates on the completion of the Ionic frieze.