Review the definition of Archaic, Classical and Hellenistic

Essay by chautinhtriCollege, UndergraduateA-, March 2008

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Review the definition of Archaic, Classical and Hellenistic which you have learned in this class. Which one of these do you think we are in the midst of today in term of Art and society as a whole? Feel free to use example.

In order to know where we are now, first let’s review those definitions. Archaic, which was one of the stages of Greek civilization was considered the archaic or old-fashioned style of sculpture and other works of art/craft that were characteristic of this time. In this period, sculptures were placed on pedestals lining entrance to a main temple or for marking graves. The typical statue is if either a male or female assuming a rather stiff pose. Another way to say, their styles is lifeless; all were in the same formula.

The classical emphasizes rational simplicity, order and restrained emotion. The rigid poses of Egyptian and early Greek figures gave way to a greater interest in anatomy and more relaxed poses.

The art of Classical Greek style is characterized by a joyous freedom of movement expression. It celebrated mankind as an independent entity. They replaced the stiff figure from the Archaic period with a free-flowing from more true to life thus the pose is much more naturalistic. Ancient Greeks believed of the emotion expression is a noble characteristic of civilized men.

The Hellenistic means Greek-like. The transition from Classical to Hellenistic coincided with the decline of Athens. In this period, Greek art become more dynamic and less idealized. Everyday activities, historical subjects, myths, and portraiture became more common subject for art.

So, where are we in which one of these? It is hard to answer. In term of Art, we are definitely not in Archaic because it’s 21th century, there is no more emotionless styles. I am...