Research Paper On The Parthenon

In Athens Greece, c. 445 BCE, The Parthenon was a structure of mathematical, optical perfection, and was built as a temple to the goddess of Athena. During the High Classic Greece period, this marble structure stood 45 feet high, and was topped with a very detailed pediment, containing life sized figures, depicting the story of Athena's birth, symbolizing the passage of the day. As the structure stood in it's place, the world around it would go through many drastic changes, giving the structure many different roles in society. From a Church to a mosque, this building had many different uses, but war would eventually take its toll on the structure, threatening the art and history of the building. The Parthenon was once used to house ammunition …show more content…
In 1816, the pieces were bought by the British Government, and to this day, sit in the British Museum for all to see. One common argument for keeping the sculptures in Britain is that the pieces should remain across the world so that all people could enjoy the art and appreciate its history. Forbes.com says that, "The British Museum claims that the removal of the objects saved them from destruction, as they were not being protected at the time." (Amineddoleh, Forbes), but the people of Athens now want the pieces returned to their original home. Another advantage of keeping the sculptures over seas is that the history tells its own story, based on their location. When others see the art on display in the British Museum, knowing it's journey and current location might cause a greater appreciation of it's adventure. People say that these marbles are not Athens’s items, but that they belong to the world. It is argued that the Parthenon cannot be owned because of it's history, and many believe that the audience should span the whole globe. It has been said many times that the British Museum has no plans on returning any art work, but that won't stop the people of Athens from continuing their protest. The intentions of Lord Elgin could have been good …show more content…
Both sides have strong arguments, and truth. Elgin's intentions, although notoriously selfish, saved the art, meaning that they wouldn't be in existence if he didn't gain possession of them. Even to those who believe the marbles weren't stolen must admit that uniting the sculptures would be significant, but a broader audience is important for art of all kinds. Those who believe they were stolen have to be grateful for Elgin keeping the pieces from further destruction. Because, according to netivist.org, "The British museum has always ensured the preservation of the Parthenon marbles and give them a privileged position in their collection." (Netivist.org, "Elgin Marbles Debate: Should They Return To Greece?"). No matter whose side someone chooses to be on, the marbles are taken care of and always given proper care, so they could be around for years to