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The Fabrication of Ancient Greece: A 200-Year Journey of Discovery and Deception

Edgar Cox

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Published in Black Athena: The Afroasiatic Roots Of Classical Civilization Volume I: The Fabrication Of Ancient Greece 1785 1985

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A Statue Of The Greek Goddess Aphrodite, A Symbol Of Beauty And Love, Against A Backdrop Of Ancient Greek Ruins And Overgrown Vines. Black Athena: The Afroasiatic Roots Of Classical Civilization Volume I: The Fabrication Of Ancient Greece 1785 1985

Delving into the Storied Past

The allure of ancient Greece has captivated imaginations for centuries, its legacy woven into the fabric of Western civilization. From the majestic Parthenon to the philosophical musings of Socrates, its impact on art, architecture, and intellect endures. However, as we delve deeper into this enigmatic era, we uncover a fascinating tale of discovery and deception that has shaped our understanding of this iconic civilization.

In 1785, Johann Joachim Winckelmann, a German art historian, published his seminal work, "The History of Art in Antiquity." This groundbreaking treatise ignited a fascination with ancient Greece and its artistic prowess. Inspired by Winckelmann's writings, European explorers and scholars embarked on expeditions to excavate ancient ruins and collect artifacts.

Black Athena: The Afroasiatic Roots of Classical Civilization Volume I: The Fabrication of Ancient Greece 1785-1985

by Martin Bernal

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
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The Birth of a Fabrication

Among these intrepid explorers was Lord Elgin, the British ambassador to the Ottoman Empire. In the early 19th century, he oversaw the removal of numerous sculptures and artifacts from the Parthenon and Erechtheion in Athens. These priceless treasures were transported to London and became known as the Elgin Marbles.

While the acquisition of these artifacts sparked admiration for Greek craftsmanship, it also raised concerns about the ethics of removing them from their original context. Elgin's actions were widely criticized, and the debate over the repatriation of these sculptures continues to this day.

The Romantic Gaze

Simultaneous to these archaeological expeditions, a wave of Romanticism swept through Europe. This artistic and literary movement idealized the past, particularly the perceived "golden age" of ancient Greece. Artists such as Jacques-Louis David and Jean-Auguste-Dominique Ingres depicted Greek subjects in idealized, often erotic poses.

This romanticized view of ancient Greece influenced not only art but also architecture. Neoclassical buildings, such as the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin and the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, drew inspiration from Greek temples and sculptures. The popularity of Greek architecture transformed cities across Europe and North America, creating a lasting architectural legacy.

Unveiling the Truth

As the 19th century progressed, scholars began to question the authenticity of some "ancient" Greek artifacts. In 1830, German archaeologist Ernst Curtius discovered that a statue of Apollo, which had been hailed as a masterpiece of Greek sculpture, was a 17th-century forgery.

This revelation triggered a wave of skepticism, leading to the re-examination of many accepted "ancient" Greek artifacts. Scholars discovered that a significant number of these objects were actually created by Renaissance and neoclassical artists, eager to profit from the demand for Greek antiquities.

A Modern Perspective

By the mid-20th century, the fabrication of ancient Greek artifacts had become well-documented. However, the fascination with ancient Greece continued, albeit with a more nuanced understanding of its history and legacy. Archaeologists and historians shifted their focus from collecting artifacts to studying the actual sites where these civilizations flourished.

This shift in perspective led to a deeper understanding of the daily lives, beliefs, and accomplishments of ancient Greeks. Excavations at Knossos, Mycenae, and other sites revealed a complex and vibrant civilization that extended far beyond the monumental architecture and artistic masterworks that had previously dominated our perceptions.

The Enduring Legacy

The fabrication of ancient Greece is a fascinating chapter in the history of Western civilization, revealing the power of both discovery and deception. It underscores the importance of critical thinking and the need to approach historical narratives with skepticism and curiosity.

Despite the revelations about forged artifacts, the legacy of ancient Greece remains profound. Its art, architecture, and philosophical ideas continue to inspire and captivate, shaping our understanding of beauty, knowledge, and the human condition. And as we continue to explore and uncover the secrets of this enigmatic civilization, we appreciate both the enduring truths and the fabricated legends that have shaped our perception of this ancient world.

Black Athena: The Afroasiatic Roots of Classical Civilization Volume I: The Fabrication of Ancient Greece 1785-1985

by Martin Bernal

4.5 out of 5