Architecture Paper
Shaquan R. Bozeman
HUM/266
Dr. Edward Zevin
July 31, 2012
University of Phoenix

Introduction: Greek and Gothic Architecture Greek architecture flourished during the Hellenic era of Greek history. Temples were popular amongst the Greeks. They are most revered buildings in Greek architecture. Temples built in ancient Greece where used for the purpose of holding deity statues dedicated to Greek Gods and Goddess. Temples such as the Parthenon was used for holding Greek treasures. Italian writer and architect Giorgio Vasari use the term Gothic to describe culture that was “rude and barbaric.” Gothic Architecture thrived during the high and late middle ages (medieval period) in 16th century France. This form of architecture would spread throughout northern Europe. Gothic Architecture was common in many of Europe’s important structures, particularly religious churches and cathedrals. Cathedrals such as the Salisbury represented the power of the Catholic Church in Europe during this time period. Both Greek and Gothic architectural styles were often utilized in designing places of worship. Gothic architecture was most commonly found in cathedrals of England and Western Europe, while Greek architecture was common in temple design ("Compare Gothic to Greek Architecture", 2012). This paper will examine the Greek Parthenon Temple and the Gothic Salisbury Cathedral. There were similarities and differences, in design and importance. This examination will compare and contrast the Greek and Gothic architectural styles and give insight on how the different eras influenced their importance.

The Parthenon Construction on the Parthenon begun in 447 BC and was finish in 438 BC. The temple was dedicated to Athena the Goddess of war. It replaced the old temple of Athena, which was destroyed by the Persians in 480 BC during the Persian Invasion. The Parthenon served as a treasury building, holding many Greek treasures. The temple is made entirely by marble. The Museum of the Goddess of Athena website explains the make-up “Apart from the limestone foundations and the ceilings and wooden doors, the Temple was built entirely of marble, even its roof tiles. The stone came from the quarries of the Pentelic Mountains” ("The Museum of The Goddess Of Athena", 2012). The Parthenon uses the classical Greek Doric temple style. The structure of the temple uses post-and-lentil construction. It is made of horizontal blocks and supported by vertical Doric columns. There are eight Doric columns to the east and west sides and seventeen on the north and south sides. The columns stand 17cm tall and tilt inwards. The corner columns are thicker, reducing the space between them and their neighbors: because they receive more sunlight, they would otherwise have appeared thinner than the rest ("The Museum of The Goddess Of Athena", 2012). It is said to represent the grace and strength of the Greek people. Inside stands the gold and ivory statue of Athena, sculpted by Greek sculptor Phidias. The statue stands 40ft high and has polychrome detail. The east and west pediment both designed to tell the story of Athena.

Salisbury Cathedral Salisbury Cathedral uses English medieval gothic style architecture. Because cathedrals take many generations to build, most of them are a mix of different architectural styles. However, the Salisbury was completed in just 38 years (1220-1258), and is uses only Gothic Architecture. This makes it one of the most unique structures in England. The cathedral’s tower has tallest spire in the United Kingdom at123m/404 ft. The spire represents the power of the Catholic Church, pointing to the heavens, and dominating much of the skyline. Much like The Parthenon the Salisbury replaced an older structure, Norman Cathedral. Bishop Richard Poore and architect Elias de Derham were the masterminds behind the new Gothic style cathedral. Repetition is seen throughout the exterior of the building’s design. A statue of Bishop Poore holding a replica of the cathedral is on the west front of the cathedral. The exterior also has statues of angels and biblical characters. This interior is huge, with High ceilings and beautiful stain glass windows. The main hall is 138 meters in length with the transept measuring 61.5 meters ("Salisbury Cathedral ", n.d.). The Salisbury Cathedral Clock is one of the oldest working clocks in world dating back to 1386 AD.

Conclusion Both the Parthenon and Salisbury cathedral represented a new beginning during their respective time periods. Both were dedicated greater powers (Athena and Jesus). The Parthenon and its Greek style temples were designed with the Greek Gods in mind. The Salisbury’s Gothic style was more representative of the heavens and the stories of the bible. The Greek style was more about grace and strength; on the other hand the medieval Gothic style represented power and dominance. The Parthenon was used for governance, a treasury for Greek society. Salisbury cathedral was a place of worship. Nevertheless, each style represented the purpose well. Many of today’s structure including the White House sport Doric style columns reminiscent of ancient Greek architecture. Each style served its purpose.

References
The Museum of the Goddess of Athena. (2012). Retrieved from http://www.goddess-athena.org/Museum/Temples/Parthenon.htm

Compare Gothic to Greek Architecture. (2012). Retrieved from http://www.ehow.com/facts_7153831_compare-gothic-architecture-greek-architecture.html

Salisbury Cathedral. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://www.creativesuite.com/art/architecture-design/cathedral-architecture/salisbury-cathedral/