Essay Questions
- The afterlife was centrally important to ancient Mesopotamian and Egyptian cultures. Describe the ways in which the afterlife affected the art and architecture of these ancient civilizations. Be sure to use specific examples in your answer.
The ancient Egyptian civilization was based on belief in gods of other worlds. However, the Mesopotamian revolution relied on the belief in gods of this world. Therefore, the architecture of the ancient civilizations, especially the Egyptian civilization took place with reference to the gods and belief in the life after death. The Egyptians believed they should adhere to the respect of the gods to earn the afterlife.
- Within a span of 50 years or so (beginning around 500 BCE), the Greeks revolutionized the way that buildings were built and sculptures were done. Explain how and why this was done, and why it was so important. Be sure to use specific examples in your answer.
The sculptures in the in the Greeks revolution were done with relevance to the gods and rulers of the time. The Ptolemaic dynasty and Pharos of Alexandria were establishments in Greece and Macedonia, which the rulers used in the global trade. The sculptures were used in the ancient Greece to depict successes of different Rulers.
- Describe the advancements that the Ancient Romans made in architecture. What did they do that was new? What did these advancements allow them to do that had not been done before? Be sure to use specific examples in your answer.
They were the first to appreciate the advantages of the vault, the arch, and the dome. The arch had incredible qualities such as strong load-bearing capacity. It additionally provides stability. The Pergamon and the simple barrel arch were invented through the Etruscans’ efforts. The arches were also used to construct larger buildings because they had higher load-bearing capacities. Bridges across rivers and valleys also used these technologies.
Reference:
Andrews E. (November 20, 2012). 10 Innovations That Built Ancient Rome. History Lists. Retrieved from http://www.history.com/news/history-lists/10-innovations-that-built-ancient-rome
