What are the arguments for the return of the Elgin marbles?
The main argument often used to support the return of the marbles is the claim that their removal from Greece was illegal. At the time, Greece was under the control of the Ottoman Empire.
Why the Elgin Marbles should not be returned to Greece?
Greece, foundation of Western civilization, member of the European Union, is one of us, not one of them.” In other words, returning the Elgin Marbles today would only reinforce the colonial principle that museums are places where “Western” powers display the cultural treasures of the “global south.” And that principle …
Why Greece should have the Elgin marbles?
Perhaps the most impassioned argument for the return of the Parthenon sculptures is that the pieces represent a vital and central part of Greek cultural heritage. That they are the most prominent and symbolic link that modern Athens and modern Athenians have with the greatness of their ancient ancestors.
What are the Elgin Marbles and what is the controversy about?
The Elgin Marbles are a source of controversy between modern Britain and Greece. It’s a collection of stone pieces rescued/removed from the ruins of the Ancient Greek Parthenon in the nineteenth century, and now in demand to be sent back from the British Museum to Greece.
What do the Elgin Marbles represent?
The sculptures on the east pediment tell the tale of the birth of the goddess Athena, while those on the west depict a battle between Athena and the god Poseidon to determine who would be the patron deity of Athens.
Why are the Elgin Marbles so important?
The arrival of the Elgin Marbles in London, it is argued, transformed Europe’s understanding of ancient Greek Art. “They are integral to the whole idea of the Universal Museum and the way museums over the last two centuries have come to display and interpret human culture,” writes Professor Mary Beard.
What should happen to the Elgin Marbles?
The legality of the statues is still highly disputed between the U.K. and Greece, with Greek officials arguing that due to the Ottoman’s occupation, the decree was not valid and the Ottomans had no authority over the Parthenon, therefore the marbles should be returned to Athens.
What are the main arguments by those who think the Parthenon Marbles should remain in England?
The British Museum argues that the sculptures in their collection should remain in London because there’s nowhere to house them in Greece and that the Greek authorities can’t look after them.
What does the Elgin Marbles symbolize?
What do the Elgin Marbles depict?
The Elgin Marbles include some of the statuary from the pediments, the metope panels depicting battles between the Lapiths and the Centaurs, as well as the Parthenon Frieze which decorated the horizontal course set above the interior architrave of the temple.
Why are the Elgin Marbles considered so important quizlet?
The marbles are part of Britain’s heritage. Lord Elgin did not understand the legal document made by the Turkish government. Lord Elgin had no right to obtain the marbles and abused his power to do so. The marbles belong to Greek history and are necessary.