STUDY QUESTION 2- HUM1020

3. Which architectural order (style) does the Parthenon use?

Doric order

4. Which are the three Greek orders of architecture? Describe each of them.

Doric, Ionic and Corinthian. Doric order, originating on the Greek mainland, is simple and severe. Ionic order, originating in Asia Minor and the Aegean Islands, is more delicate and ornamental. Corinthian is the most ornate of the orders and characterized by capitals consisting of acanthus leaves.

5. Which temple on the Acropolis employed Ionic order?

Temple of Athena Nike

6. What is the name for the spiral decorations in the capital of Ionic column (use illustration)?

Volute

1. Parthenon is dedicated to which deity?

Athena, the goddess of war and wisdom, the patron of the arts and crafts.

7. Why is Parthenon's geometry not perfectly straight?

Because of the following examples: Its Doric columns swell out near the center to counter the optical effect of thinning that occurs when the normal eye views an uninterrupted set of parallel lines. All columns tilt slightly inward. Corner columns are thicker than the others to compensate for the attenuating effect produced by bright light of the sky against which the columns are viewed, and also to ensure their ability to bear the weight of the terminal segments of the superstructure. The top set of the platform on which the columns rest is not parallel to the ground, but rises four and a quarter inches at the center, allowing for rain water to run off the convex surface even as it corrects the optical impression of sagging along the extended length of the platform.

2. Who commissioned the building of Parthenon, and with which funds?

Pericles commissioned the building of Parthenon, with Delian League funds.