Product Description

Architecture and Meaning on the Athenian Acropolis focuses on the architectural complex that is generally considered to be one of the outstanding achievements of Western civilization. Though the buildings and sculpture of the Acropolis, erected over the course of the fifth century B.C., have been scrutinized by scholars for more than a century, Robin Rhodes' sensitive analysis is the first to consider the ensemble as a whole and to explain how the monuments communicate meaningfully with one another to form an iconographic narrative. His study also examines the sculpture and decoration, which were conceived together with the abstract features, while relating both to the larger issues in Greek architecture and aesthetics.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #313001 in Books
• Published on: 1995-06-30
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 236 pages

Review
"Written by a scholar with a sensitive eye for the Greek landscape and a firm grasp of architectural principles, Rhodes's interpretive essay is enjoyable reading. For the beginning student it will serve as a thoughtful introduction to one of the most impressive religious complexes ever created..." Jenifer Neils, Journal of the Society of Architectural Historians

Customer Reviews

New and Improved, it the ATHENIAN ACROPOLIS!!
Robin Rhodes' intuitive approach to one of the most discussed monuments in the history of art and architecture equips the reader to comprehend the work of a society which, facing destruction, re-interprets a building tradition hundreds of years in the making to express the innovative, nostalgic, and brilliantly defiant nature of the turbulent 5th century B.C.E. Drawing from scuptural attitudes, ritual practices, and political atmospheres, Rhodes places the Athenian Acropolis not at an assumed "zenith" of Greek architecture, but in a very alive and therefore constantly evolving context of artistic achievement. This books appeals to those who enjoy free thought in the most enlightening sense of the words.

A Great Read
Not only is Professor Rhodes's book far from boring, but rare in that it allows easy access to a scholar's interpretation of Greek architecture. I was lucky enough to have been a student in a few of the Professor's classes. A wonderful read for those expanding their knowledge on Greek architecture, or those just beginning.

Extremely clear, useful study
If you are interested in Greek Architecture, this book is great for examining the Athenian Acropolis as a whole, and how the structures function in relation to each other, and to the viewer. Compared to some of the other books on the subject, this book was extremely readable, not to mention informative. To the first reviewer -I actually had Professor Rhodes for a class several years ago, and I have to say I totally disagree with your assessment. I learned volumes from him, and he couldn't have been a nicer person.