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Argument of the Parthenon Sculptures

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Argument of the Parthenon Sculptures

The debate surrounding the ""Parthenon Marbles" has existed for quite some time now; the debate has created two opinions. There are those who believe Mr. Thomas Bruce, the seventh Earl of Elgin intentions where to rescues the sculptures from the certain destruction of the Turks who ruled Athens at the time. Then there are those who view his actions as disrespectful. It appears Elgin's intentions were dual in nature, him being a lover of art, seized the opportunity to help himself financially as well as an opportunity to gain a positive, (he had hoped), notoriety among his countrymen. The sculptures were first displayed in "London in 1807"(1). The two opinions took flight after a Scottish poet; by the name of Lord Byron condemned his efforts, which cause some to revisit the morality of it all. The Grecian government has persistently requested the sculptures be returned.

The sculptures need to be returned to the Grecians. Firstly, as stated by, Jonathan Jones, "The sad truth is that in the British Museum, the Parthenon sculptures are not experienced at their best."(2) Although the sculptures offer insight to the Western world of its history, the Greek people have a moral right to have the symbols of their history on their soil for their people young and old to learn and to have a sense of national pride. Secondly, "It is believable that the Turkish authorities on sight were bribed. Owen Jarus stated, "Elgin never acquired the permission to remove the sculptural and architectural decoration of the monument." (3) Both sides of the argument have legitimacy; only a decision to do, that which is morally correct, will end this debate. Word Count (275)

Bibliography

(1) Jarus, Owen. "Elgin Marbles & the Parthenon." LiveScience. January 14, 2014. Accessed June 6, 2015.
(2) Jones, Jonathan. "The Parthenon Marbles Are the World's Most Beautiful Art – and That's Why We Should Give Them Back." Parthenon Marbles_ Jonathan Jones on Art. August 18, 2014. Accessed June 6, 2015.
(3) Jarus, Owen. "Elgin Marbles & the Parthenon." LiveScience. January 14, 2014. Accessed June 6, 2015.

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