Glossary
Amphitheater
An open-air venue used for public entertainment, typically oval or circular in shape with tiered seating surrounding a central arena.
Example:
The Colosseum is the largest ancient amphitheater ever built, designed for grand spectacles like gladiatorial contests and mock naval battles.
Archaic Smile
A distinctive facial expression characteristic of Greek Archaic sculpture, where the lips are slightly upturned at the corners, giving the impression of a subtle smile.
Example:
While the Anavysos Kouros has a more contemplative expression, many earlier Archaic sculptures are easily recognized by their characteristic archaic smile.
Concrete
A durable building material made from a mixture of cement, aggregate (like sand or gravel), and water, extensively used by the Romans for its strength and versatility.
Example:
The Romans' innovative use of concrete allowed them to construct massive and complex structures like the Colosseum, demonstrating their engineering prowess.
Contrapposto
An Italian term meaning 'counterpose,' describing a human figure standing with most of its weight on one foot, creating a natural, relaxed pose with a slight S-curve in the body.
Example:
Polykleitos's Doryphoros is a quintessential example of contrapposto, showing the figure's weight shifted to one leg, creating dynamic tension and naturalism.
Cultural Interactions (Greek-Roman)
The exchange and adaptation of artistic styles, ideas, and practices between the Greek and Roman civilizations, where Romans often borrowed from Greek models but adapted them to their own purposes.
Example:
The Roman adoption of Greek sculptural forms, as seen in the Augustus of Prima Porta, exemplifies the significant cultural interactions between the two civilizations.
Idealized Proportions
The representation of the human form according to a set of perfect or aesthetically pleasing ratios, often emphasizing beauty and harmony rather than strict realism.
Example:
The Doryphoros embodies the Greek pursuit of perfection through its idealized proportions, aiming for a universal standard of beauty and balance.
Imperial Portraiture
Sculptural or painted representations of emperors and their families, often used to convey power, authority, and specific political messages throughout the Roman Empire.
Example:
The Augustus of Prima Porta is a prime example of Roman imperial portraiture, designed to project Augustus's authority and divine favor across the empire.
Incised Lines
Lines cut or engraved into a surface, often used in sculpture to define details, musculature, or drapery.
Example:
The detailed musculature of the Anavysos Kouros is achieved through the precise use of incised lines, giving a sense of anatomical definition.
Kouros
A type of free-standing ancient Greek sculpture depicting a nude male youth, typically used as a grave marker or dedicatory offering.
Example:
The Anavysos Kouros is a prime example of a kouros, showcasing the early Greek interest in the human form and its anatomical representation.
Political Propaganda
Art created with the specific purpose of promoting a political agenda, leader, or ideology, often through idealized or symbolic imagery to influence public opinion.
Example:
The Augustus of Prima Porta serves as powerful political propaganda, presenting the emperor as a youthful, divine, and victorious leader to solidify his rule.
Roman Engineering Techniques
The advanced methods and designs employed by Roman builders, including the extensive use of arches, vaults, domes, and concrete, to create large-scale, durable structures.
Example:
The Colosseum showcases sophisticated Roman engineering techniques, including its complex system of arches and underground tunnels, allowing for efficient crowd control and elaborate spectacles.