Ancient Greece Answers

This relief sculpture is entitled Athena Attacking the Giants. It was created during the Hellenistic period. This sculpture shows an unhappy Athena, who is holding the men at either side, almost in a hostage manner. This sculpture is characteristic of the Hellenistic time period because it exhibits emotion, anger, and violence, which were all common in Hellenistic art due to the circumstances at the time Greece.

Alexander the Great died unexpectedly in 323 BCE. As a result, the whole empire began to fall, and leaders fought over power and the empire. Artists of this period had a noticeably different vision of art. Art before this time period were characterized as religious and peaceful. Hellenistic art became more realistic. Hellenistic art is known for the expression of pain, anger, and other dark emotions.

This sculpture is entitled Nike of Samothrace. It was created during the Hellenistic period. It is thought to have commemorated an important naval victory, or some other type of war victory.

The Geometric period was the first specifically Greek style of vase painting. It was characterized by linear motifs such as spirals, diamonds, and cross-hatching. Abstract forms were used to represent human figures. This included triangles for the torsos, dots for the eyes, long, thin rectangles for the arms, tiny waists, and long legs with bulging spherical muscles. Funerary art reflected the belief that the dead could continue to enjoy their favorite activities even in death.

Picture 1 appears to be a Geometric vase, while Picture 2 is a small Geometric sculpture of a centaur. The vase would be characterized by horizontal bands, repeated patterns, and simplified figures arranged in an organized way. The centaur also shows typical Geometric features because its body is stylized rather than realistic and it is covered with decorative linear designs and spirals. Both works emphasize pattern, symmetry, and abstraction instead of naturalistic detail, which are key traits of Greek Geometric art.

Answers may vary, but should be similar to the following: This vase was done by a man who is called the Priam Painter. This vase, and others like it, gave insight into Greek city life. It shows fountains which were a public amenity. The artist has also included geometric shapes and red and black contrast make it a striking piece of art.

Answers may vary, but should be similar to the following: Pericles dominated Athenian Politics. He led Athens to a period of great wealth known as the “Golden Age” and used Athenian wealth for the adornment of the city. Encouraged artists to promote a public image of peace, prosperity, and power. There were many examples of great structures and vases created during this time period.