greek architecture research topics

Heilbrunn Timeline of Art History Essays

Architecture in ancient greece.

Marble column from the Temple of Artemis at Sardis

Marble akroterion of the grave monument of Timotheos and Nikon

Lion felling a bull, from a marble pediment

Terracotta architectural tile

Colette Hemingway Independent Scholar

October 2003

Ancient Greek architects strove for the precision and excellence of workmanship that are the hallmarks of Greek art in general. The formulas they invented as early as the sixth century B.C. have influenced the architecture of the past two millennia. The two principal orders in Archaic and Classical Greek architecture are the Doric and the Ionic. In the first, the Doric order, the columns are fluted and have no base. The capitals are composed of two parts consisting of a flat slab, the abacus, and a cushionlike slab known as the echinus. On the capital rests the entablature, which is made up of three parts: the architrave, the frieze, and the cornice. The architrave is typically undecorated except for a narrow band to which are attached pegs, known as guttae. On the frieze are alternating series of triglyphs (three bars) and metopes, stone slabs frequently decorated with relief sculpture. The pediment, the triangular space enclosed by the gables at either end of the building, was often adorned with sculpture, early on in relief and later in the round. Among the best-preserved examples of Archaic Doric architecture are the temple of Apollo at Corinth, built in the second quarter of the sixth century B.C., and the temple of Aphaia at Aegina, built around 500–480 B.C. To the latter belong at least three different groups of pedimental sculpture exemplary of stylistic development between the end of the sixth and beginning of the fifth century B.C. in Attica.

In the Ionic order of architecture, bases support the columns, which have more vertical flutes than those of the Doric order. Ionic capitals have two volutes that rest atop a band of palm-leaf ornaments. The abacus is narrow, and the entablature, unlike that of the Doric order, usually consists of three simple horizontal bands. The most important feature of the Ionic order is the frieze, which is usually carved with relief sculpture arranged in a continuous pattern around the building.

In general, the Doric order occurs more frequently on the Greek mainland and at sites on the Italian peninsula, where there were many Greek colonies. The Ionic order was more popular among Greeks in Asia Minor and in the Greek islands. A third order of Greek architecture, known as the Corinthian, first developed in the late Classical period, but was more common in the Hellenistic and Roman periods. Corinthian capitals have a bell-shaped echinus decorated with acanthus leaves, spirals, and palmettes. There is also a pair of small volutes at each corner; thus, the capital provides the same view from all sides.

The architectural order governed not only the column, but also the relationships among all the components of architecture. As a result, every piece of a Greek building is integral to its overall structure; a fragment of molding often can be used to reconstruct an entire building. Although the ancient Greeks erected buildings of many types, the Greek temple best exemplifies the aims and methods of Greek architecture. The temple typically incorporated an oblong plan, and one or more rows of columns surrounding all four sides. The vertical structure of the temple conformed to an order, a fixed arrangement of forms unified by principles of symmetry and harmony. There was usually a pronaos (front porch) and an opisthodomos (back porch). The upper elements of the temple were usually made of mud brick and timber, and the platform of the building was of cut masonry. Columns were carved of local stone, usually limestone or tufa; in much earlier temples, columns would have been made of wood. Marble was used in many temples, such as the Parthenon in Athens, which is decorated with Pentelic marble and marble from the Cycladic island of Paros. The interior of the Greek temple characteristically consisted of a cella, the inner shrine in which stood the cult statue, and sometimes one or two antechambers, in which were stored the treasury with votive offerings.

The quarrying and transport of marble and limestone were costly and labor-intensive, and often constituted the primary cost of erecting a temple. For example, the wealth Athens accumulated after the Persian Wars enabled Perikles to embark on his extensive building program, which included the Parthenon (447–432 B.C.) and other monuments on the Athenian Akropolis. Typically, a Greek civic or religious body engaged the architect, who participated in every aspect of construction. He usually chose the stone, oversaw its extraction, and supervised the craftsmen who roughly shaped each piece in the quarry. At the building site, expert carvers gave the blocks their final form, and workmen hoisted each one into place. The tight fit of the stones was enough to hold them in place without the use of mortar; metal clamps embedded in the stone reinforced the structure against earthquakes. A variety of skilled labor collaborated in the raising of a temple. Workmen were hired to construct the wooden scaffolding needed for hoisting stone blocks and sculpture, and to make the ceramic tiles for the roofs. Metalworkers were employed to make the metal fittings used for reinforcing the stone blocks and to fashion the necessary bronze accoutrements for sculpted scenes on the frieze, metopes, and pediments. Sculptors from the Greek mainland and abroad carved freestanding and relief sculpture for the eaves of the temple building. Painters were engaged to decorate sculptural and architectural elements with painted details.

Hemingway, Colette. “Architecture in Ancient Greece.” In Heilbrunn Timeline of Art History. New York: The Metropolitan Museum of Art, 2000–. http://www.metmuseum.org/toah/hd/grarc/hd_grarc.htm (October 2003)

Further Reading

Avery, Catherine B., ed. The New Century Handbook of Greek Art and Architecture . New York: Appleton–Century–Crofts, 1972.

Hornblower, Simon, and Antony Spawforth, eds. The Oxford Classical Dictionary . 3d ed., rev. New York: Oxford University Press, 2003.

Lawrence, A. W. Greek Architecture . 4th ed., rev. by R. A. Tomlinson. Harmondsworth: Penguin, 1983.

Pedley, John Griffiths, Greek Art and Archaeology . 2d ed. New York: Harry N. Abrams, 1998.

Pomeroy, Sarah B., et al. Ancient Greece: A Political, Social, and Cultural History . New York: Oxford University Press, 1999.

Robertson, Martin. A History of Greek Art . 2 vols. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 1975.

Additional Essays by Colette Hemingway

• Hemingway, Colette. “ Art of the Hellenistic Age and the Hellenistic Tradition .” (April 2007)
• Hemingway, Colette. “ Greek Hydriai (Water Jars) and Their Artistic Decoration .” (July 2007)
• Hemingway, Colette. “ Hellenistic Jewelry .” (April 2007)
• Hemingway, Colette. “ Intellectual Pursuits of the Hellenistic Age .” (April 2007)
• Hemingway, Colette. “ Mycenaean Civilization .” (October 2003)
• Hemingway, Colette. “ Retrospective Styles in Greek and Roman Sculpture .” (July 2007)
• Hemingway, Colette. “ Africans in Ancient Greek Art .” (January 2008)
• Hemingway, Colette. “ Ancient Greek Colonization and Trade and their Influence on Greek Art .” (July 2007)
• Hemingway, Colette. “ Greek Gods and Religious Practices .” (October 2003)
• Hemingway, Colette. “ The Art of Classical Greece (ca. 480–323 B.C.) .” (January 2008)
• Hemingway, Colette. “ The Labors of Herakles .” (January 2008)
• Hemingway, Colette. “ Athletics in Ancient Greece .” (October 2002)
• Hemingway, Colette. “ The Rise of Macedon and the Conquests of Alexander the Great .” (October 2004)
• Hemingway, Colette. “ The Technique of Bronze Statuary in Ancient Greece .” (October 2003)
• Hemingway, Colette. “ Women in Classical Greece .” (October 2004)
• Hemingway, Colette. “ Cyprus—Island of Copper .” (October 2004)
• Hemingway, Colette. “ Music in Ancient Greece .” (October 2001)
• Hemingway, Colette. “ Ernest Hemingway (1899–1961) and Art .” (October 2004)
• Hemingway, Colette. “ Etruscan Art .” (October 2004)
• Hemingway, Colette. “ Prehistoric Cypriot Art and Culture .” (October 2004)
• Hemingway, Colette. “ Sardis .” (October 2004)
• Hemingway, Colette. “ Medicine in Classical Antiquity .” (October 2004)
• Hemingway, Colette. “ Southern Italian Vase Painting .” (October 2004)
• Hemingway, Colette. “ Theater in Ancient Greece .” (October 2004)
• Hemingway, Colette. “ The Kithara in Ancient Greece .” (October 2002)
• Hemingway, Colette. “ Minoan Crete .” (October 2002)

Related Essays

• The Art of Classical Greece (ca. 480–323 B.C.)
• Art of the Hellenistic Age and the Hellenistic Tradition
• Greek Art in the Archaic Period
• Greek Gods and Religious Practices
• Ancient Greek Colonization and Trade and their Influence on Greek Art
• Antique Engraved Gems and Renaissance Collectors
• Architecture in Renaissance Italy
• The Augustan Villa at Boscotrecase
• Boscoreale: Frescoes from the Villa of P. Fannius Synistor
• Classical Antiquity in the Middle Ages
• Death, Burial, and the Afterlife in Ancient Greece
• Duncan Phyfe (1770–1854) and Charles-Honoré Lannuier (1779–1819)
• Geometric Art in Ancient Greece
• Greek Terracotta Figurines with Articulated Limbs
• The Idea and Invention of the Villa
• Medusa in Ancient Greek Art
• Mystery Cults in the Greek and Roman World
• The Neoclassical Temple
• Neoclassicism
• The Praenestine Cistae
• Retrospective Styles in Greek and Roman Sculpture
• Southern Italian Vase Painting
• Theater and Amphitheater in the Roman World
• Theater in Ancient Greece
• Anatolia and the Caucasus (Asia Minor), 1000 B.C.–1 A.D.
• Ancient Greece, 1000 B.C.–1 A.D.
• Ancient Greece, 1–500 A.D.
• Italian Peninsula, 1000 B.C.–1 A.D.
• Italian Peninsula, 1–500 A.D.
• 1st Century B.C.
• 2nd Century B.C.
• 3rd Century B.C.
• 4th Century B.C.
• 5th Century B.C.
• 6th Century B.C.
• Ancient Greek Art
• Ancient Roman Art
• Archaic Period
• Architectural Element
• Architecture
• Balkan Peninsula
• Classical Period
• Funerary Art
• Hellenistic Period
• Mythical Creature
• Relief Sculpture
• Religious Art
• Sculpture in the Round

Introduction to ancient Greek architecture

The Erechtheion , 421–405 B.C.E. (Classical Greek), Acropolis, Athens (photo: Steven Zucker , CC BY-NC-SA 2.0)

For most of us, architecture is easy to take for granted. It’s everywhere in our daily lives—sometimes elegant, other times shabby, but generally ubiquitous. How often do we stop to examine and contemplate its form and style? Stopping for that contemplation offers not only the opportunity to understand one’s daily surroundings but also to appreciate the connection that exists between architectural forms in our own time and those from the past. Architectural tradition and design have the ability to link disparate cultures together over time and space—and this is certainly true of the legacy of architectural forms created by the ancient Greeks .

Ancient Greek world map (underlying map © Google)

Where and when

Greek architecture refers to the architecture of the Greek-speaking peoples who inhabited the Greek mainland and the Peloponnese, the islands of the Aegean Sea, the Greek colonies in Ionia (coastal Asia Minor), and Magna Graecia (Greek colonies in Italy and Sicily).

Greek architecture stretches from c. 900 B.C.E. to the first century C.E., with the earliest extant stone architecture dating to the seventh century B.C.E.

Greek architecture influenced Roman architecture and architects in profound ways, such that Roman Imperial architecture adopts and incorporates many Greek elements into its own practice. An overview of basic building typologies demonstrates the range and diversity of Greek architecture.

“Hera II,” c. 460 B.C.E., 24.26 x 59.98 m, Greek, Doric temple from the classical period likely dedicated to Hera, Paestum (Latin) previously Poseidonia (photo: Steven Zucker , CC BY-NC-SA 2.0)

The most recognizably “Greek” structure is the temple (even though the architecture of Greek temples is actually quite diverse). The Greeks referred to temples with the term ὁ ναός ( ho naós ), meaning “dwelling,” temple derives from the Latin term, templum . The earliest shrines were built to honor divinities and were made from materials such as wood and mud brick—materials that typically don’t survive very long. The basic form of the naos  (the interior room that held the cult statue of the God or Gods) emerges as early as the tenth century B.C.E. as a simple, rectangular room with projecting walls ( antae ) that created a shallow porch. This basic form remained unchanged in its concept for centuries. In the eighth century B.C.E., Greek architecture begins to make the move from ephemeral materials (wood, mud brick, thatch) to permanent materials (namely, stone).

The Greek Architectural Orders

During the Archaic period , the tenets of the Doric order of architecture in the Greek mainland became firmly established, leading to a wave of monumental temple building during the sixth and fifth centuries B.C.E. Greek city-states invested substantial resources in temple building—as they competed with each other not just in strategic and economic terms, but also in their architecture. For example, Athens devoted enormous resources to the construction of the Acropolis in the 5th century B.C.E.—in part so that Athenians could be confident that the temples built to honor their gods surpassed anything that their rival states could offer.

Iktinos and Kallikrates, The Parthenon, Athens, 447–432 B.C.E. (photo: Steven Zucker, CC BY-NC-SA 2.0)

The multi-phase architectural development of sanctuaries such as that of Hera on the island of Samos demonstrates not only the change that occurred in construction techniques over time but also how the Greeks re-used sacred spaces—with the later phases built directly atop the preceding ones. Perhaps the fullest, and most famous, expression of Classical Greek temple architecture is the Periclean Parthenon of Athens —a Doric order structure, the Parthenon represents the maturity of the Greek classical form.

Left: Tholos temple, sanctuary of Athena Pronaia, 4th century B.C.E., Delphi, Greece (photo: kufoleto , CC BY 3.0); right: Greek temple plans (diagram: B. Jankuloski , CC BY-SA 4.0 )

Greek temples are often categorized in terms of their ground plan and the way in which the columns are arranged. A prostyle temple is a temple that has columns only at the front, while an amphiprostyle temple has columns at the front and the rear. Temples with a peripteral arrangement (from the Greek πτερον ( pteron ), meaning “wing”) have a single line of columns arranged all around the exterior of the temple building. Dipteral temples simply have a double row of columns surrounding the building. One of the more unusual plans is the tholos, a temple with a circular ground plan; famous examples are attested at the sanctuary of Apollo in Delphi and the sanctuary of Asclepius at Epidaurus.

Stoa (στοά) is a Greek architectural term that describes a covered walkway or colonnade that was usually designed for public use. Early examples, often employing the Doric order, were usually composed of a single level, although later examples (Hellenistic and Roman) came to be two-story freestanding structures. These later examples allowed interior space for shops or other rooms and often incorporated the Ionic order for interior colonnades.

P. De Jong, Restored Perspective of the South Stoa, Corinth (image: American School of Classical Studies, Digital Collections )

20th-century reconstruction of the Stoa of Attalos in the Athenian Agora (original c. 159–138 B.C.E.) (photo: DerHexer , CC BY-SA 3.0)

Greek city planners came to prefer the stoa as a device for framing the agora (public marketplace) of a city or town. The South Stoa (c. 700–550 B.C.E.), constructed as part of the sanctuary of Hera on the island of Samos, numbers among the earliest examples of the stoa in Greek architecture. Many cities, particularly Athens and Corinth, came to have elaborate and famous stoas. In Athens, the famous Stoa Poikile (“Painted Stoa”), c. fifth century B.C.E., housed paintings of famous Greek military exploits, including the battle of Marathon, while the Stoa Basileios (“Royal Stoa”), c. fifth century B.C.E., was the seat of a chief civic official ( archon basileios ).

Later, through the patronage of the kings of Pergamon, the Athenian agora was augmented by the famed Stoa of Attalos (c. 159–138 B.C.E.), which was recently rebuilt according to the ancient specifications and now houses the archaeological museum for the Athenian Agora itself. At Corinth, the stoa persisted as an architectural type well into the Roman period; the South Stoa there, c. 150 C.E., shows the continued utility of this building design for framing civic space. From the Hellenistic period onwards, the stoa also lent its name to a philosophical school, as Zeno of Citium originally taught his Stoic philosophy in the Stoa Poikile of Athens.

Theater at the Sanctuary of Asclepius at Epidaurus, c. 350–300 B.C.E. (photo: Andreas Trepte , CC BY-SA 2.5)

The Greek theater was a large, open-air structure used for dramatic performance. Theaters often took advantage of hillsides and naturally sloping terrain and, in general, utilized the panoramic landscape as the backdrop to the stage itself. The Greek theater is composed of the seating area (theatron), a circular space for the chorus to perform (orchestra), and the stage ( skene ). Tiered seats in the theatron provided space for spectators. Two side aisles ( parados , pl. paradoi ) provided access to the orchestra. The Greek theater inspired the Roman version of the theater directly, although the Romans introduced some modifications to the concept of theater architecture. In many cases, the Romans converted pre-existing Greek theaters to conform to their own architectural ideals, as is evident in the Theater of Dionysos on the slopes of the Athenian Acropolis. Since theatrical performances were often linked to sacred festivals, it is not uncommon to find theaters associated directly with sanctuaries.

Bouleuterion, Priène (Turkey), c. 200 B.C.E. (photo: QuartierLatin1968 , CC BY-SA 2.0)

Bouleuterion

The Bouleuterion (βουλευτήριον) was an important civic building in a Greek city, as it was the meeting place of the boule (citizen council) of the city. These select representatives assembled to handle public affairs and represent the citizenry of the polis (in ancient Athens, the boule was comprised of 500 members). The Bouleuterion generally was a covered, rectilinear building with stepped seating surrounding a central speaker’s well in which an altar was placed. The city of Priène has a particularly well-preserved example of this civic structure, as does the city of Miletus.

House of regular plan, Olynthus, Greece, House A vii 4, built after 432, before 348 B.C.E., from Olynthus, vol. 8 pl. 99, 100 and fig. 5, kitchen complex c, d, and e; andron (k) (photo: Perseus Digital Library )

Greek houses of the Archaic and Classical periods were relatively simple in design. Houses usually were centered on a courtyard that would have been the scene for various ritual activities; the courtyard also provided natural light for the often small houses. The ground floor rooms would have included kitchen and storage rooms, perhaps an animal pen and a latrine; the chief room was the andron — site of the male-dominated drinking party ( symposion ). The quarters for women and children ( gynaikeion ) could be located on the second level (if present) and were, in any case, segregated from the men’s area. It was not uncommon for houses to be attached to workshops or shops. The houses excavated in the southwest part of the Athenian Agora had walls of mud brick that rested on stone socles and tiled roofs, with floors of beaten clay.

The city of Olynthus in Chalcidice, Greece, destroyed by military action in 348 B.C.E., preserves many well-appointed courtyard houses arranged within the Hippodamian grid-plan of the city. House A vii 4 had a large cobbled courtyard that was used for domestic industry. While some rooms were fairly plain, with earthen floors, the andron was the most well-appointed room of the house.

Fortifications and gate, Palairos, Greece (photo: orientalizing , CC BY-NC-ND 2.0 )

Fortifications

The Mycenaean fortifications of Bronze Age Greece (c. 1300 B.C.E.) are particularly well known—the megalithic architecture (also referred to as Cyclopean because of the use of enormous stones) represents a trend in Bronze Age architecture. While these massive Bronze Age walls are difficult to best, first millennium B.C.E. Greece also shows evidence of stone-built fortification walls. In Attika (the territory of Athens), a series of Classical and Hellenistic walls built in ashlar masonry (squared masonry blocks) have been studied as a potential system of border defenses.  At Palairos in Epirus (Greece), the massive fortifications enclose a high citadel that occupies imposing terrain.

Stadium, gymnasium, and palaestra

The Greek stadium (derived from stadion , a Greek measurement equivalent to c. 578 feet or 176 meters) was the location of foot races held as part of sacred games; these structures are often found in the context of sanctuaries, as in the case of the Panhellenic sanctuaries at Olympia and Epidauros. Long and narrow, with a horseshoe shape, the stadium occupied reasonably flat terrain.

The gymnasium (from the Greek term gymnós meaning “naked”) was a training center for athletes who participated in public games . This facility tended to include areas for both training and storage. The palaestra (παλαίστρα) was an exercise facility originally connected with the training of wrestlers. These complexes were generally rectilinear in plan, with a colonnade framing a central, open space.

Altar of Hieron II, 3rd century B.C.E., Syracuse, Sicily, Italy (photo: Urban~commonswiki , CC BY-SA 3.0 )

Front view, model, Pergamon Altar

Since blood sacrifice was a key component of Greek ritual practice, an altar was essential for these purposes. While altars did not necessarily need to be architecturalized, they could be, and, in some cases, they assumed a monumental scale. The third century B.C.E. Altar of Hieron II at Syracuse, Sicily, provides one such example. At c. 196 meters in length and c. 11 m in height, the massive altar was reported to be capable of hosting the simultaneous sacrifice of 450 bulls. [1]

Another spectacular altar is the Altar of Zeus from Pergamon, built during the first half of the second century B.C.E. The altar itself is screened by a monumental enclosure decorated with sculpture; the monument measures c. 35.64 by 33.4 meters. The altar is best known for its program of relief sculpture that depicts a gigantomachy (battle between the Olympian gods and the giants) that is presented as an allegory for the military conquests of the kings of Pergamon. Despite its monumental scale and lavish decoration, the Pergamon altar preserves the basic and necessary features of the Greek altar: it is frontal and approached by stairs and is open to the air—to allow not only for the blood sacrifice itself but also for the burning of the thigh bones and fat as an offering to the gods.

Fountain house

Black-figured water-jar (hydria ) with a scene at a fountain-house, Greek, about 520–500 B.C.E., 50.8 cm high, © The Trustees of the British Museum

The fountain house is a public building that provides access to clean drinking water and at which water jars and containers could be filled. The Southeast Fountain house in the Athenian Agora (c. 530 B.C.E.) provides an example of this tendency to position fountain houses and their dependable supply of clean drinking water close to civic spaces like the agora. Gathering water was seen as a woman’s task and, as such, it offered the often isolated women a chance to socialize with others while collecting water. Fountain house scenes are common on ceramic water jars ( hydriai ), as is the case for a Black-figured hydria found in an Etruscan tomb in Vulci that is now in the British Museum.

The architecture of ancient Greece influenced ancient Roman architecture and became the architectural vernacular employed in the expansive Hellenistic world created in the wake of the conquests of Alexander the Great. Greek architectural forms became implanted so deeply in the Roman architectural mindset that they endured throughout antiquity, only to be then re-discovered in the Renaissance and especially from the mid-eighteenth century onwards as a feature of the Neoclassical movement . This durable legacy helps to explain why the ancient Greek architectural orders and the tenets of Greek design are still so prevalent—and visible—in our post-modern world.

[1] Diodorus Siculus History 11.72.2.

Additional resources

Learn more about ancient Greek architecture in three chapters in  Reframing Art History : “ Pottery, the body, and the gods in ancient Greece, c. 800–490 B.C.E. , ” “ War, democracy, and art in ancient Greece, c. 490–350 B.C.E. ,” and “ Empire and Art in the Hellenistic world (c. 350–31 B.C.E.) .”

Athenian Agora Excavations.

J. M. Camp, The Athenian Agora: a short guide to the excavations (American School of Classical Studies at Athens).

Architecture in Ancient Greece on the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Heilbrunn Timeline of Art History.

B. A. Ault and L. Nevett, Ancient Greek Houses and Households: Chronological, Regional, and Social Diversity (Philadelphia: University of Pennsylvania Press, 2005).

N. Cahill, Household and City Organization at Olynthus (New Haven: Yale University Press, 2001).

J. J. Coulton,   The Architectural Development of the Greek Stoa (Oxford: Clarendon Press, 1976).

J. J. Coulton, Ancient Greek Architects at Work: Problems of Structure and Design (Ithaca NY: Cornell University Press, 1982).

W. B. Dinsmoor, The Architecture of Greece: an Account of its Historic Development 3rd ed. (London: Batsford, 1950).

Marie-Christine Hellmann, L’architecture Grecque 3 vol. (Paris: Picard, 2002–2010).

M. Korres, Stones of the Parthenon (Los Angeles: J. Paul Getty Museum, 2000).

A. W. Lawrence, Greek Architecture 5th ed. (New Haven: Yale University Press, 1996).

C. G. Malacrino, Constructing the Ancient World: Architectural Techniques of the Greeks and Romans (Los Angeles: J. Paul Getty Museum, 2010).

A. Mazarakis Ainian, From Rulers’ Dwellings to Temples: Architecture, Religion and Society in early Iron Age Greece (1100–700 B.C.) (Jonsered: P. Åströms förlag, 1997).

L. Nevett, House and Society in the Ancient Greek World (Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 1999).

J. Ober, Fortress Attica: Defense of the Athenian Land Frontier, 404–322 B.C. (Leiden: E. J. Brill, 1985).

D. S. Robertson, Greek and Roman Architecture 2nd ed. (Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 1969).

J. N. Travlos, Pictorial Dictionary of Ancient Athens (New York: Praeger, 1971).

F. E. Winter, Greek Fortifications (Toronto: University of Toronto Press, 1971).

F. E. Winter, Studies in Hellenistic Architecture (Toronto: University of Toronto Press, 2006).

W. Wrede, Attische Mauern (Athens: Deutsches archäologisches Institut, 1933).

R. E. Wycherley, The Stones of Athens (Princeton: Princeton University Press, 1978).

Smarthistory images for teaching and learning:

[flickr_tags user_id=”82032880@N00″ tags=”GreekArchitecture,”]

More Smarthistory images…

Cite this page

Your donations help make art history free and accessible to everyone!

Ancient Greece Research Paper Topics

This page is an exhaustive guide to ancient Greece research paper topics , catering primarily to history students embarking on their research journey. It kicks off with an extensive list of 100 research paper topics, meticulously divided into ten categories, each encapsulating a distinctive facet of ancient Greek history. The guide further equips students with valuable tips on how to select the most suitable ancient Greece research paper topic and provides a step-by-step approach to writing a compelling research paper. This page also introduces iResearchNet’s customized writing services, enabling students to order a bespoke research paper on any topic related to ancient Greece.

Ancient Greece offers a rich and captivating history that has greatly influenced various aspects of modern society. From its remarkable achievements in art, literature, philosophy, and politics to its epic myths and legends, Ancient Greece provides a vast array of intriguing research paper topics. This comprehensive list will explore ten different categories, each containing ten unique research paper topics, allowing students to delve into the fascinating world of Ancient Greece and contribute to the body of knowledge surrounding this remarkable civilization.

Academic Writing, Editing, Proofreading, And Problem Solving Services

Get 10% off with 24start discount code.

Ancient Greek Architecture

• The Evolution of Greek Temples: From the Doric to Ionic Styles
• The Parthenon: A Masterpiece of Classical Greek Architecture
• The Role of Architectural Proportions in Greek Temples
• Greek Theaters: Design, Acoustics, and Performances
• The Significance of Greek Architectural Orders in Public Buildings
• Urban Planning in Ancient Greece: The Design of Cities
• Greek Architectural Influence on Roman and Neoclassical Styles
• Temples of Ancient Greece: Sacred Spaces and Religious Rituals
• The Sanctuary of Delphi: A Center of Ancient Greek Worship
• The Architecture of Ancient Greek Agoras: Public Spaces and Political Life

Ancient Greek Mythology and Religion

• The Twelve Olympian Gods and Their Roles in Greek Mythology
• The Heroic Deeds of Heracles: Legends and Symbolism
• The Myth of Prometheus: Rebellion, Punishment, and Humanity
• The Journey of Odysseus: Adventures and Lessons in Homer’s Odyssey
• The Stories of Greek Tragic Heroes: Oedipus, Medea, and Antigone
• The Significance of Greek Creation Myths: Origins of the World
• The Cult of Dionysus: Rituals, Festivals, and Wine in Greek Society
• Greek Oracles and Prophecies: Delphi, Dodona, and Beyond
• Greek Funeral Rites and Beliefs about the Afterlife
• The Cult of Demeter and the Eleusinian Mysteries: Secrets of Initiation

Ancient Greek Literature and Philosophy

• The Works of Homer: The Iliad and The Odyssey
• The Philosophy of Socrates: Ideas, Influence, and Legacy
• The Dialogues of Plato: Exploring Philosophical Concepts
• Aristotle’s Contributions to Philosophy and Science
• The Tragedies of Sophocles: Themes, Symbolism, and Morality
• Euripides and the Complexities of Greek Tragedy
• The Poetry of Sappho: Love, Desire, and Feminine Expression
• Greek Historiography: Herodotus and Thucydides
• The Hellenistic Period: Literature and Philosophy
• The Influence of Ancient Greek Literature on Western Culture

Ancient Greek Art and Sculpture

• Classical Greek Sculpture: Beauty, Idealism, and Naturalism
• Black-figure and Red-figure Pottery: Techniques, Styles, and Themes
• The Iconography of Greek Vases: Mythology, Daily Life, and Rituals
• The Kouros and Kore Sculptures: Representations of Youth and Beauty
• The Development of Greek Bronze Sculpture: Techniques and Subjects
• Greek Mosaic Art: Techniques, Designs, and Symbolism
• Hellenistic Sculpture: Realism, Emotion, and Dramatic Expression
• The Greek Influence on Roman Statuary and Portraiture
• The Function and Symbolism of Greek Architectural Sculpture
• The Artistic Legacy of Ancient Greece in Modern Times

Ancient Greek History and Politics

• The Rise of the City-States: Athens, Sparta, and Thebes
• The Persian Wars: Causes, Battles, and Outcomes
• The Golden Age of Athens: Democracy, Leadership, and Cultural Flourishing
• The Peloponnesian War: Causes, Strategies, and Impacts
• Alexander the Great: Conquests, Empire, and Legacy
• The Hellenistic Kingdoms: Ptolemaic, Seleucid, and Antigonid Empires
• Greek Colonization: Expansion, Trade, and Cultural Exchange
• The Life and Reign of Pericles: Influence and Achievements
• Greek Democracy: Origins, Principles, and Limitations
• The Role of Women in Ancient Greek Society and Politics

Ancient Greek Science and Mathematics

• Archimedes and his Contributions to Mathematics and Physics
• Hippocrates and the Birth of Western Medicine
• Euclid’s Elements: Geometry and Mathematical Principles
• The Scientific Achievements of Thales, Anaximander, and Anaximenes
• The Concept of Atomism: Leucippus and Democritus
• Pythagoras and the Pythagorean Theorem: Mathematics and Philosophy
• Aristarchus of Samos: Heliocentrism and Early Astronomy
• Greek Medicine and Healing Practices: Asclepius and the Cult of Health
• Greek Engineering and Inventions: Contributions to Architecture and Warfare
• The Legacy of Ancient Greek Science in Modern Society

Ancient Greek Society and Daily Life

• The Greek Polis: Society, Governance, and Citizenship
• Slavery in Ancient Greece: Origins, Roles, and Treatment
• Education in Ancient Greece: Philosophical and Practical Aspects
• The Role of Women in Ancient Greek Society
• Ancient Greek Festivals and Religious Celebrations
• Greek Sports and Athletics: The Olympic Games and Beyond
• Ancient Greek Cuisine: Food, Drink, and Banquets
• Clothing and Fashion in Ancient Greece
• The Influence of Greek Music and Dance on Culture
• The Ancient Greek Family: Structure, Roles, and Values

Ancient Greek Warfare and Military Strategies

• The Spartan Military System: Training, Discipline, and Values
• The Battle of Marathon: Tactics, Heroes, and Significance
• The Hoplite Warfare: Phalanx Formation and Strategies
• The Peloponnesian War: Naval Warfare and Strategies
• The Macedonian Phalanx: Innovations in Ancient Warfare
• Siege Warfare in Ancient Greece: Methods and Technologies
• Alexander the Great’s Military Campaigns: Strategies and Conquests
• The Role of Mercenaries in Ancient Greek Warfare
• Naval Power in Ancient Greece: The Trireme and Naval Battles
• The Legacy of Ancient Greek Warfare in Military History

Ancient Greek Philosophy and Intellectual Movements

• The Pre-Socratic Philosophers: Exploring the Nature of Reality
• The Philosophy of Plato: Ideal Forms and the Theory of Forms
• Aristotle’s Ethics: Virtue, Happiness, and the Golden Mean
• The Stoic Philosophy: Principles and Practices for a Virtuous Life
• The Epicurean Philosophy: Pursuit of Pleasure and Freedom from Fear
• The Skepticism of Pyrrho: Doubt, Suspense, and Epistemic Inquiry
• Cynicism and Diogenes of Sinope: Rejecting Conventional Values
• The Hellenistic Philosophies: Eclecticism and Syncretism
• The Influence of Ancient Greek Philosophy on Western Thought
• Philosophy and Its Impact on Ancient Greek Society

Ancient Greek Art and Aesthetics

• Greek Pottery: Styles, Techniques, and Symbolism
• The Beauty and Harmony of Greek Sculpture: Idealized Human Form
• The Greek Art of Mosaics: Colors, Patterns, and Narrative
• Architectural Sculpture in Ancient Greece: Ornamentation and Function
• The Technique of Greek Vase Painting: Black-figure and Red-figure
• Greek Coinage: Artistic Representations and Political Symbols
• The Use of Color in Ancient Greek Art and Architecture
• Greek Frescoes: Wall Paintings and Decorative Arts
• Greek Jewelry and Adornment: Materials, Designs, and Symbolism
• Greek Textile Art: Weaving, Dyeing, and Pattern-making

The comprehensive list of ancient Greece research paper topics provides students with a wide range of fascinating subjects to explore within the realm of Greek history, culture, and civilization. From the realm of art, literature, and philosophy to politics, warfare, and daily life, these topics offer ample opportunities for in-depth research and scholarly inquiry. By delving into these captivating areas of study, students can gain a deeper understanding of Ancient Greece and contribute to the body of knowledge surrounding this extraordinary civilization.

Ancient Greece: Exploring the Range of Research Paper Topics

Ancient Greece is renowned for its rich history, culture, and enduring legacy. The study of Ancient Greece offers a vast array of research paper topics that delve into various aspects of this fascinating civilization. From its mythology and philosophy to its politics and art, Ancient Greece provides ample opportunities for in-depth exploration and scholarly inquiry. This section aims to explore the diverse range of research paper topics available in Ancient Greek history, offering students a glimpse into the breadth and depth of this captivating field of study.

• Greek Mythology : Explore the significance of Greek mythology in Ancient Greek society, examining the gods, heroes, and mythical narratives that shaped their religious beliefs, rituals, and cultural practices. Topics could include the role of gods in human affairs, the portrayal of women in mythology, or the connections between myth and historical events.
• Athenian Democracy : Investigate the development, functioning, and significance of Athenian democracy, focusing on key institutions such as the Assembly, Council, and courts. Examine topics such as the role of citizenship, political participation, and the impact of democracy on Athenian society.
• Greek Philosophy : Dive into the world of Greek philosophy and explore the works and ideas of influential thinkers such as Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle. Topics may include the nature of knowledge and reality, ethical theories, or the role of philosophy in shaping Ancient Greek society.
• Greek Theater : Analyze the origins, evolution, and cultural significance of Greek theater, examining prominent playwrights such as Aeschylus, Sophocles, and Euripides. Topics could explore theatrical conventions, the portrayal of women in Greek drama, or the role of theater in Athenian democracy.
• Olympic Games : Investigate the origins, rituals, and cultural impact of the Ancient Greek Olympic Games. Topics may include the role of athletes in society, the connection between sport and religious festivals, or the political significance of the Games.
• Ancient Greek Warfare : Explore the military strategies, tactics, and technologies employed by the Ancient Greeks, focusing on notable battles and conflicts. Topics could include the rise of hoplite warfare, naval warfare in the Peloponnesian War, or the military legacy of Alexander the Great.
• Hellenistic Period : Examine the Hellenistic period that followed the conquests of Alexander the Great, exploring the political, social, and cultural developments of the successor kingdoms. Topics may include the spread of Greek culture, the impact of Hellenistic art and architecture, or the role of women in Hellenistic society.
• Greek Art and Architecture : Delve into the world of Greek art and architecture, studying iconic structures such as the Parthenon and the sculptures of the Classical period. Topics could explore the symbolism in Greek art, the evolution of architectural styles, or the influence of Greek art on later civilizations.
• Spartan Society : Investigate the unique society of Sparta, focusing on its military culture, social structure, and political system. Topics may include the Spartan education system, the role of women in Spartan society, or the Spartan military ethos.
• Alexander the Great : Analyze the life, achievements, and legacy of Alexander the Great, examining his military campaigns, empire-building strategies, and cultural impact. Topics could explore his leadership style, the blending of Greek and Eastern cultures, or the political implications of his conquests.

The study of Ancient Greece offers a vast array of research paper topics that cover a wide range of disciplines and themes. From mythology and philosophy to politics, art, and warfare, the world of Ancient Greece is ripe with opportunities for exploration and scholarly inquiry. This section has provided a glimpse into the diverse range of research paper topics available, showcasing the richness and significance of Ancient Greek history. Whether you are drawn to the mythical realm of gods and heroes or fascinated by the political systems and cultural achievements of the Greeks, there is a captivating research topic awaiting your exploration. Delve into the wonders of Ancient Greece and uncover its enduring legacy through the lens of your research paper.

Choosing Ancient Greece Research Paper Topics

Choosing a research paper topic on Ancient Greece can be an exciting yet challenging task. With such a vast and diverse history, it’s essential to select a topic that is engaging, relevant, and allows for comprehensive exploration. This section aims to provide expert advice and guidance on how to choose the perfect research paper topic in Ancient Greece. By following these tips and considerations, students can narrow down their options and select a topic that aligns with their interests and academic goals.

• Understand Your Interests : Reflect on your personal interests and passions within the field of Ancient Greece. Are you drawn to a particular aspect, such as art, philosophy, politics, or warfare? Identifying your interests will help you select a topic that resonates with you and keeps you motivated throughout the research process.
• Conduct Preliminary Research : Before finalizing a topic, conduct preliminary research to familiarize yourself with the existing literature and scholarly discussions in Ancient Greek history. This will help you identify gaps in knowledge or areas that require further exploration, which can serve as potential research paper topics.
• Narrow Down Your Focus : Ancient Greece encompasses a wide range of time periods, regions, and themes. Narrow down your focus by selecting a specific time period or geographical region that interests you the most. For example, you may choose to focus on the Classical period, the city-state of Athens, or the impact of Greek colonization.
• Consider Unexplored Topics : While popular topics in Ancient Greece have been extensively researched, consider exploring lesser-known or under-researched areas. This can include examining marginalized groups in Greek society, lesser-known historical figures, or specific aspects of daily life that have received limited scholarly attention.
• Engage with Primary Sources : Dive into primary sources, such as ancient texts, inscriptions, or archaeological findings, to discover intriguing research paper topics. Analyzing primary sources allows for a deeper understanding of Ancient Greek culture and can lead to unique research questions and interpretations.
• Consult with Your Professor or Advisor : Seek guidance from your professor or academic advisor. They can offer valuable insights, suggest potential research paper topics based on your academic goals, and provide additional resources to support your research.
• Brainstorm and Refine Your Topic : Engage in brainstorming sessions to generate a list of potential research paper topics. Consider the feasibility, scope, and availability of sources for each topic. Refine your ideas by narrowing down the focus, formulating clear research questions, and ensuring the topic aligns with the requirements of your assignment.
• Consider Comparative Approaches : Explore topics that allow for comparative analysis between Ancient Greece and other civilizations or time periods. Comparative approaches can provide a fresh perspective and contribute to a broader understanding of Ancient Greek history and its interconnectedness with the wider world.
• Explore Interdisciplinary Connections : Ancient Greece has influenced various disciplines, including literature, philosophy, art, politics, and science. Consider exploring interdisciplinary connections by incorporating elements from other fields into your research paper topic. This can lead to innovative and multi-dimensional analyses.
• Stay Current with Scholarly Debates : Stay updated with the latest scholarly debates and discussions in the field of Ancient Greek history. Familiarize yourself with the current trends, research methodologies, and emerging topics of interest. Engaging with ongoing debates can inspire new research paper topics or offer opportunities for critical analysis and contribution to the academic discourse.

Choosing an ancient Greece research paper topic requires careful consideration, engagement with primary and secondary sources, and a clear understanding of your academic interests. By following the expert advice provided in this section, students can select a captivating and well-focused research topic that allows for in-depth exploration and contributes to the understanding of Ancient Greek history. Remember to consult with your professor or advisor for guidance and support throughout the research process. With the right topic, diligent research, and a passion for the subject, you can embark on a rewarding journey of uncovering the wonders of Ancient Greece.

How to Write an Ancient Greece Research Paper

Writing a research paper on Ancient Greece offers an exciting opportunity to delve into the captivating world of this ancient civilization. From its mythology and philosophy to its politics and art, Ancient Greece provides a wealth of topics for exploration and analysis. This section aims to provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to write an effective and engaging research paper on Ancient Greece. By following these tips and strategies, you can navigate the research process with confidence and produce a well-crafted paper that showcases your knowledge and critical thinking skills.

• Choose a Specific Topic : Start by selecting a specific topic within the realm of Ancient Greece that interests you the most. Narrow down your focus to a particular aspect, time period, or theme to ensure that your research remains manageable and focused.
• Conduct In-Depth Research : Begin your research by consulting a variety of reputable sources, including books, scholarly articles, and academic journals. Utilize both online and offline resources to gather a comprehensive understanding of your chosen topic.
• Develop a Strong Thesis Statement : Craft a clear and concise thesis statement that presents the main argument or central idea of your research paper. Your thesis should be specific, arguable, and supported by evidence from your research.
• Organize Your Research : Create a well-structured outline to guide your writing process. Organize your main points, arguments, and supporting evidence in a logical manner. This will help you maintain a coherent flow throughout your paper.
• Analyze Primary and Secondary Sources : Engage with a combination of primary and secondary sources to support your arguments and provide historical context. Primary sources can include ancient texts, artifacts, and inscriptions, while secondary sources offer scholarly interpretations and analysis.
• Engage with Different Perspectives : Consider various viewpoints and interpretations of your chosen topic. Engaging with different perspectives will enhance the depth and breadth of your research and demonstrate your ability to critically evaluate historical evidence.
• Utilize Proper Citations : Ensure that you properly cite all sources used in your research paper. Follow the appropriate citation style, such as MLA or APA, and adhere to the guidelines for both in-text citations and the bibliography or references page.
• Develop Strong Arguments : Structure your paper around well-developed arguments supported by evidence from your research. Present a clear line of reasoning and critically evaluate the sources to strengthen your arguments.
• Include Visuals and Illustrations : Consider incorporating visuals such as maps, diagrams, or images related to your topic. Visuals can enhance the understanding of complex concepts and provide visual evidence to support your arguments.
• Revise and Edit : Set aside ample time for revising and editing your research paper. Check for clarity, coherence, grammar, and punctuation errors. Ensure that your paper flows smoothly and effectively communicates your ideas.

Writing a research paper on Ancient Greece offers a fascinating journey into the world of this ancient civilization. By following these tips and strategies, you can navigate the research process with confidence and produce a well-crafted paper that showcases your knowledge and critical thinking skills. Remember to choose a specific and engaging topic, conduct in-depth research, develop a strong thesis statement, and organize your paper effectively. Engage with different perspectives, utilize proper citations, and develop strong arguments supported by evidence. With careful planning, thorough research, and diligent writing, you can create an exceptional research paper that illuminates the wonders of Ancient Greece for your readers.

iResearchNet’s Writing Services

At iResearchNet, we understand the challenges students face when it comes to writing research papers on Ancient Greece. The complexity of the subject matter, the extensive research required, and the need for critical analysis can be overwhelming. That’s why we are here to offer our professional writing services and be your trusted partner in crafting exceptional Ancient Greece research papers. With our team of expert writers and a commitment to excellence, we provide you with the support and assistance you need to excel in your academic endeavors.

• Expert Degree-Holding Writers : We have a team of highly qualified writers with advanced degrees in history and related fields. Our writers possess in-depth knowledge and expertise in Ancient Greece, ensuring that your research paper is in the hands of knowledgeable professionals.
• Custom Written Works : Every research paper we deliver is custom-written to meet your specific requirements. We understand the importance of originality and adhere to strict plagiarism guidelines. You can be confident that your paper will be unique and tailored to your academic needs.
• In-Depth Research : Our writers conduct extensive research to gather relevant and reliable sources for your Ancient Greece research paper. They are skilled in navigating scholarly databases, libraries, and reputable online sources to ensure your paper is well-supported and thoroughly researched.
• Custom Formatting : We understand the importance of adhering to specific formatting styles. Whether it’s APA, MLA, Chicago/Turabian, or Harvard, our writers are well-versed in the intricacies of formatting and will ensure your paper meets the required style guidelines.
• Top Quality : Quality is our top priority. We strive for excellence in every aspect of our writing services. Our writers meticulously craft each paper, paying attention to detail, accuracy, and coherence. Your research paper will meet the highest standards of quality.
• Customized Solutions : We understand that every student has unique needs and preferences. Our writing services are flexible and customizable to accommodate your specific requirements. You can communicate directly with your assigned writer to discuss any specific instructions or preferences.
• Flexible Pricing : We offer competitive and affordable pricing options to make our services accessible to students. Our pricing structure is transparent, with no hidden costs. We understand the budget constraints of students and aim to provide value for your investment.
• Short Deadlines : We recognize the importance of meeting deadlines. Our writers are experienced in working under time constraints and can deliver high-quality papers even with short deadlines. We offer the flexibility to choose deadlines that suit your schedule, with options for urgent orders.
• Timely Delivery : We guarantee timely delivery of your research paper. We understand the significance of meeting deadlines, and we work diligently to ensure your paper is delivered to you within the agreed-upon timeframe.
• 24/7 Support : Our customer support team is available 24/7 to assist you with any queries or concerns you may have. We are dedicated to providing prompt and reliable support throughout the writing process.
• Absolute Privacy : We prioritize the privacy and confidentiality of our clients. Your personal information and details of the project will be kept strictly confidential. You can trust us to handle your research paper with utmost discretion.
• Easy Order Tracking : We provide a user-friendly platform that allows you to easily track the progress of your research paper. You can communicate directly with your writer, ask for updates, and provide additional instructions if needed.
• Money-Back Guarantee : We are confident in the quality of our writing services. In the rare event that you are not satisfied with the final result, we offer a money-back guarantee. Your satisfaction is our priority, and we will work to resolve any issues to your utmost satisfaction.

When it comes to writing Ancient Greece research papers, iResearchNet is your reliable partner. With our team of expert writers, commitment to excellence, and dedication to customer satisfaction, we provide you with the support and assistance you need to achieve academic success. Our services are designed to alleviate the stress and challenges of research paper writing, allowing you to focus on other important aspects of your academic journey. Trust iResearchNet to be your partner in crafting exceptional Ancient Greece research papers that meet the highest standards of quality and professionalism.

Unleash Your Potential with iResearchNet

Are you ready to embark on a fascinating journey through the rich history of Ancient Greece? Do you want to delve into the captivating world of Greek civilization and uncover its profound influence on art, philosophy, politics, and more? Look no further! iResearchNet is here to support you in your exploration of Ancient Greece through our exceptional writing services. Whether you need assistance with choosing a research paper topic, crafting a well-researched paper, or navigating the complexities of academic writing, we are your dedicated partner in achieving academic success.

Are you ready to embark on a transformative journey into the captivating world of Ancient Greece? Let iResearchNet be your guiding light. With our team of expert writers, commitment to excellence, and dedication to your success, we provide you with the support and assistance you need to excel in your academic pursuits. Don’t miss the opportunity to unleash your potential and make a lasting impact with your Ancient Greece research papers. Trust iResearchNet to be your partner in crafting exceptional papers that showcase your knowledge, critical thinking, and passion for this remarkable civilization. Unlock the secrets of Ancient Greece and embark on a rewarding academic journey with iResearchNet today!

ORDER HIGH QUALITY CUSTOM PAPER

• Subject List
• Take a Tour
• For Authors
• Subscriber Services
• Publications
• African American Studies
• African Studies
• American Literature
• Anthropology
• Architecture Planning and Preservation

Art History

• Atlantic History
• Biblical Studies
• British and Irish Literature
• Childhood Studies
• Chinese Studies
• Cinema and Media Studies
• Communication
• Criminology
• Environmental Science
• Evolutionary Biology
• International Law
• International Relations
• Islamic Studies
• Jewish Studies
• Latin American Studies
• Latino Studies
• Linguistics
• Literary and Critical Theory
• Medieval Studies
• Military History
• Political Science
• Public Health
• Renaissance and Reformation
• Social Work
• Urban Studies
• Victorian Literature
• Browse All Subjects

How to Subscribe

• Free Trials

In This Article Expand or collapse the "in this article" section Greek Art and Architecture

Introduction.

• Bibliography, Compendia, and Textbooks
• Ancient Literary Sources
• Architecture and Urbanism
• Minora (Bronzes, Coins, Gems, Ivory, Jewelry)
• Painting and Mosaic
• Geometric (c. 1000–c. 700 bc )
• Orientalizing (c. late 8 th –c. early 6 th c. bc )
• Archaic (c. 600–c. 480 bc )
• High Classical (c. 480–c. 404 bc )
• Late Classical (c. 404–c. 336 bc )
• Hellenistic (c. 336–c. 133 bc )
• Art and Aesthetics
• Art and Religion
• Art and Text
• Art, Gender, and Sexuality
• Art, Myth, and Narrative
• Looting and Illegal Excavation
• Masters, Copies, and Connoisseurship
• Portraiture

Related Articles Expand or collapse the "related articles" section about

About related articles close popup.

Lorem Ipsum Sit Dolor Amet

Vestibulum ante ipsum primis in faucibus orci luctus et ultrices posuere cubilia Curae; Aliquam ligula odio, euismod ut aliquam et, vestibulum nec risus. Nulla viverra, arcu et iaculis consequat, justo diam ornare tellus, semper ultrices tellus nunc eu tellus.

• Babylonian Art and Architecture
• The Parthenon

Other Subject Areas

Forthcoming articles expand or collapse the "forthcoming articles" section.

• Art of the Catholic Religious Orders in Medieval Europe
• Color in European Art and Architecture
• Japanese Buddhist Paintings
• Find more forthcoming articles...
• Export Citations
• Share This Facebook LinkedIn Twitter

Greek Art and Architecture by Richard Neer LAST REVIEWED: 30 January 2014 LAST MODIFIED: 30 January 2014 DOI: 10.1093/obo/9780199920105-0005

Greek art is one of the oldest subjects in humanistic study and it is impossible to provide a deep, historical overview of the topic. The present article is, instead, a guide to current research. Emphasis is on publications of the last twenty-five years; readers seeking to go deeper will find, in the texts cited here, a ready guide to earlier scholarship. Given its close ties to primary archaeological research, the study of Greek art boasts a robust tradition of “corpus scholarship”: the presentation of large bodies of material organized by style, medium, date, theme, or some combination thereof. This taxonomic or classificatory impulse derives in large part from the role of style and type in stratigraphic sequencing. It encourages a certain systematicity in research, rigorous in the best sense but with a tendency to obscure the incomplete nature of archaeological evidence. Within this framework, the past twenty-five years have witnessed two divergent, even antithetical tendencies in research: on the one hand, the advent of quantificatory methods derived from the social sciences; on the other, a growing willingness to move beyond style and iconography and to engage the transformations in art-historical theory and method that began in the 1970s and 1980s. In light of these points, this article has three main divisions. The first consists of introductory overviews and general treatments by medium; the second presents basic corpora by period, with an emphasis on synthetic treatments; the third reviews recent thematic and iconographic scholarship. Monographic studies of particular monuments are, unfortunately, outside the scope of this essay, which aims rather to provide readers with the tools to approach individual monuments without treating them in detail. Distinct patterns in publishing emerge, notably a reluctance of anglophone university presses to publish basic reference works outside the textbook or “companion” format.

General Research Resources

This section covers basic research tools. Emphasis is on surveys, databases, and general discussions that cover multiple periods and media. Trends in university publishing mean that, since the mid-1990s, advanced surveys have become increasingly rare in English, where the “companion” format has largely displaced the traditional narrative survey.

back to top

Users without a subscription are not able to see the full content on this page. Please subscribe or login .

Oxford Bibliographies Online is available by subscription and perpetual access to institutions. For more information or to contact an Oxford Sales Representative click here .

• About Art History »
• Meet the Editorial Board »
• Activist and Socially Engaged Art
• Adornment, Dress, and African Arts of the Body
• Alessandro Algardi
• Ancient Egyptian Art
• Ancient Pueblo (Anasazi) Art
• Angkor and Environs
• Art and Archaeology of the Bronze Age in China
• Art and Architecture in the Medieval Kingdom of Hungary
• Art and Propaganda
• Art of Medieval Iberia
• Art of the Crusader Period in the Levant
• Art of the Dogon
• Art of the Mamluks
• Art of the Plains Peoples
• Art Restitution
• Artemisia Gentileschi
• Arts of Senegambia
• Arts of the Pacific Islands
• Assyrian Art and Architecture
• Australian Aboriginal Art
• Aztec Empire, Art of the
• Bamana Arts and Mande Traditions
• Barbizon Painting
• Bartolomeo Ammannati
• Bernini, Gian Lorenzo
• Bohemia and Moravia, Renaissance and Rudolphine Art of
• Borromini, Francesco
• Brazilian Art and Architecture, Post-independence
• Burkina Art and Performance
• Byzantine Art and Architecture
• Caravaggio, Michelangelo Merisi da
• Carracci, Annibale
• Ceremonial Entries in Early Modern Europe
• Chaco Canyon and Other Early Art in the North American Sou...
• Chicana/o Art
• Chimú Art and Architecture
• Colonial Art of New Granada (Colombia)
• Conceptual Art and Conceptualism
• Contemporary Art
• Courbet, Gustave
• Czech Modern and Contemporary Art
• Daumier, Honoré
• David, Jacques-Louis
• Delacroix, Eugène
• Design, Garden and Landscape
• Destruction in Art
• Destruction in Art Symposium (DIAS)
• Dürer, Albrecht
• Early Christian Art
• Early Medieval Architecture in Western Europe
• Early Modern European Engravings and Etchings, 1400–1700
• Eighteenth-Century Europe
• Ephemeral Art and Performance in Africa
• Ethiopia, Art History of
• European Art, Historiography of
• European Medieval Art, Otherness in
• Expressionism
• Eyck, Jan van
• Feminism and 19th-century Art History
• Festivals in West Africa
• Francisco de Zurbarán
• French Impressionism
• Gender and Art in the Middle Ages
• Gender and Art in the Renaissance
• Gender and Art in the 17th Century
• Giotto di Bondone
• Gothic Architecture
• Gothic Art in Italy
• Goya y Lucientes, Francisco José
• Great Zimbabwe and its Legacy
• Greek Art and Architecture
• Greenberg, Clement
• Géricault, Théodore
• Iconography in the Western World
• Installation Art
• Islamic Art and Architecture in North Africa and the Iberi...
• Japanese Architecture
• Japanese Buddhist Sculpture
• Japanese Ceramics
• Japanese Literati Painting and Calligraphy
• Jewish Art, Ancient
• Jewish Art, Medieval to Early Modern
• Jewish Art, Modern and Contemporary
• Jones, Inigo
• Josefa de Óbidos
• Kahlo, Frida
• Katsushika Hokusai
• Lastman, Pieter
• Leonardo da Vinci
• Luca della Robbia (or the Della Robbia Family)
• Luisa Roldán
• Markets and Auctions, Art
• Marxism and Art
• Medieval Art and Liturgy (recent approaches)
• Medieval Art and the Cult of Saints
• Medieval Art in Scandinavia, 400-800
• Medieval Textiles
• Meiji Painting
• Merovingian Period Art
• Modern Sculpture
• Monet, Claude
• Māori Art and Architecture
• Museums in Australia
• Museums of Art in the West
• Native North American Art, Pre-Contact
• Nazi Looting of Art
• New Media Art
• New Spain, Art and Architecture
• Pacific Art, Contemporary
• Palladio, Andrea
• Parthenon, The
• Paul Gauguin
• Performance Art
• Perspective from the Renaissance to Post-Modernism, Histor...
• Peter Paul Rubens
• Philip II and El Escorial
• Photography, History of
• Pollock, Jackson
• Polychrome Sculpture in Early Modern Spain
• Postmodern Architecture
• Pre-Hispanic Art of Columbia
• Psychoanalysis, Art and
• Qing Dynasty Painting
• Rembrandt van Rijn
• Renaissance and Renascences
• Renaissance Art and Architecture in Spain
• Rimpa School
• Rivera, Diego
• Rodin, Auguste
• Romanticism
• Science and Conteporary Art
• Sculpture: Method, Practice, Theory
• South Asia and Allied Textile Traditions, Wall Painting of
• South Asia, Modern and Contemporary Art of
• South Asia, Photography in
• South Asian Architecture and Sculpture, 13th to 18th Centu...
• South Asian Art, Historiography of
• The Art of Medieval Sicily and Southern Italy through the ...
• The Art of Southern Italy and Sicily under Angevin and Cat...
• Theory in Europe to 1800, Art
• Timurid Art and Architecture
• Turner, Joseph Mallord William
• van Gogh, Vincent
• Warburg, Aby
• Warhol, Andy
• Wari (Huari) Art and Architecture
• Wittelsbach Patronage from the late Middle Ages to the Thi...
• Women, Art, and Art History: Gender and Feminist Analyses
• Yuan Dynasty Art
• Privacy Policy
• Cookie Policy
• Legal Notice
• Accessibility

Powered by:

• [66.249.64.20|185.147.128.134]
• 185.147.128.134

Find anything you save across the site in your account

Greek Architecture: Everything You Need to Know

By Katherine McLaughlin and Elizabeth Stamp

We have a lot to thank ancient Greece for—the  Olympics, Western medicine, democracy, and, of course, Greek architecture. The ancient civilization, which encompassed the mainland, the Greek islands, and other areas along the Mediterranean (from modern-day Slovenia to western Turkey), produced precise and monumental buildings that have influenced thousands of years of architecture. These designs emphasized perfection over innovation, creating simple yet beautiful structures that are still referenced in modern designs. In this guide from  AD , learn about the architectural style developed in ancient Greece, study classical orders, and discover some of the most important examples of Greek architecture, from the Acropolis of Athens to a collection of temples in Italy.

What is Greek architecture?

Generally speaking, Greek architecture refers to the ancient buildings designed and developed by the ancient Greek cities and civilizations that existed throughout the Greek mainland, Peloponnese, Aegean Islands, and Greek colonies in Anatolia and Italy. These buildings were constructed as early as 900 BCE all the way until the first century CE, though most of the earliest remaining works from the period date to around 600 BCE. “Ancient Greek architecture is a broad field of study that encompasses everything from monumental stone temples to domestic houses built of timber and mud brick,” says Jessica Paga , PhD, a professor at William & Mary College specializing in Greek archaeology and history.

History of Greek architecture

The Temple of Segesta

The legacy of ancient Greece is profound—it was a period of achievement for countless disciplines, including philosophy, politics, art, science, and of course architecture for thousands of years. Because of its notable length, scholars typically divide the era into multiple periods, including the Mycenaean Age (1600 to 1100 BCE), the Greek Dark Age (1200 to 800 BCE), the Greek Archaic period (800 to 479 BCE), the Greek Classical Age (500-336 BCE), and the Hellenistic period (336 to 146 BCE).

Each period brought certain changes and advancements to Greek architecture. During the Greek Dark Ages, collections of farming villages—eventually city-states—started to form, which brought forth the existence of the agora (a marketplace) and central meeting place. The archaic period encompassed some of the more significant architectural contributions, including settlements organized around Greek temples, city centers, and open-air markets. It was also during this time that the Greeks started developing columns, sloped roofs, and porticoes. The Classical Period represented the maturation of Greek design, and welcomed some of the most notable structures of the era including the Parthenon.

Greek architecture is considered a part of classical architecture, which also encompasses Roman architecture. The Greek style was defined by its uniformity, simplicity, proportions, and harmony. Many of the most iconic designs from this time include stone edifices, though other materials such as wood and brick were also employed. “Some of the earliest Greek temples were built of mud brick and timber, but they gradually started to be built in stone during the seventh to sixth century BCE, and by the fifth century BCE almost all temples were built in stone,” Dr. Paga explains.

The Greeks built various types of public buildings, including theaters and stadiums, though perhaps the most notable structures were the multiple temples built to honor the Olympic gods. “Greek temples, though, despite how iconic and numerous they seem, were often not a necessary part of Greek worship,” Dr. Paga adds. The most important element for the ancient religion was the altar, which were located outside of the temple since offerings were burnt on them. A temple was mostly necessary if it housed a statue for a cult god. “Temples were also depositories of votives, or gifts, brought to the god as thank-you offerings and to ask for their favor. These objects, especially those made of precious materials like bronze or gold, would be stored inside the temple to protect them,” Dr. Paga explains.

Though an untrained eye may see any ancient Greek building as similar—perhaps a rectangular floor plan with a row of columns along the facade as basic characteristics—there are three distinct styles of Greek architecture known as the classical orders. Each order—the Doric, Ionian, and Corinthian—uses a different style of column, proportions, and decorative details.

“The Doric and Ionic orders, to the best of our knowledge, emerged around the same time that temples began to be built in stone, in the seventh and sixth centuries BCE,” Dr. Paga says. “The Corinthian order, on the other hand, developed later, towards the end of the fifth century BCE.”

The classical orders from left to right: Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian.

The architectural orders are most easily identifiable based on the type of column present and the entablature, which is the superstructure of moldings and bands that lies horizontally across the columns. The entablature can be further subdivided into three parts: the architrave (a lintel or beam that lies on the columns), the frieze (a band along the middle of the entablature often used for decorative purposes), and the cornice (horizontal molding that crowns the building).

The Doric order is more easily recognizable by simple, unadorned columns that sit directly on the stylobate—the top step of a temple’s platform—without an additional base. “The Doric order is characterized by its thick columns and spreading capital, which looks a bit like a mushroom or a squished marshmallow,” Dr. Paga says. Doric columns are fluted and typically stocky. “Broadly speaking, the Doric order was used mostly in mainland Greece and areas to the west—such as Sicily and Southern Italy—where many Greek cities sent colonies in the eighth to sixth century BCE.”

The Ionic order gets its name from the place it originated, Ionia, a coastal region in what is now Turkey. The Ionic order is notable for its graceful proportions, and the buildings often have a slender and graceful profile. Ionic architecture is most easily identifiable by paired volutes on the columns—spiral, scroll-like ornaments—and a base that separates the columns from the stylobate. “The frieze course for the Ionic order is one continuous horizontal band, an area that was sometimes decorated with relief sculpture and sometimes left blank,” Dr. Paga says.

“The Corinthian order began to be favored more and more during the Hellenistic period (the period after the exploits and death of Alexander the Great), and the Romans especially loved it,” Dr. Paga explains. “So if you go to Italy now, you’ll primarily see the Corinthian order, and it is also the order most commonly seen today in Europe and the United States.” The columns of the Corinthian order are among the most ornate and sleek of the classical orders. The most identifiable feature is a decorative capital—the very top of the column—which includes carved acanthus leaves.

“Some of the most intriguing things present in ancient Greek architecture, particularly the temples, are the existence of what scholars often refer to as ‘optical refinements,’” Dr. Paga says. “These were documented and recognized even in antiquity by people like ancient Roman architect Vitruvius, but they still cause some befuddlement today. Two of the most widely used ‘refinements’ are entasis and curvature.”

Temple of Concordia

Entasis was mostly frequently used in the Doric order and involved a slight convex or swelling in the middle of the shaft. “Entasis is quite noticeable in earlier temples of the sixth and early fifth century BCE, but it gradually becomes more and more subtle, to the point where you barely notice it or it is only detectable using scientific tools,” Dr. Paga adds. Curvature, on the other hand, refers to a principle by which no straight lines exist in monumental stone Greek architecture. “Every single horizontal element—like the steps, podium, frieze, and cornice—curves slightly upwards in the middle,” Dr. Paga says. “An exaggerated drawing of this would make the entire building look like it’s springing upwards from the middle.” The main vertical elements, like columns, are inclined slightly inward.

Though this may seem counter to the fact that Greek architecture is generally known for its crisp, straight lines, it’s actually these refinements that make this assumption possible. “There was a widespread idea in antiquity that, when presented with a straight horizontal line, the eye sees it as sagging in the middle, hence curvature ‘corrects’ this optical distortion,” Dr. Paga says. “Similarly, they thought that a vertical line was seen to be diminishing in diameter as it stretched upwards, so entasis was thought to help counter this problem.” Modern scholars acknowledge this explanation, while also noting that these refinements enliven the architecture.

Defining elements and characteristics of Greek architecture

To better understand Greek architecture, consider the common architectural elements that are often seen in ancient Greek buildings. Though not exhaustive, consider the following list:

• Tall columns
• Square or rectangular floor plans
• Stone structures

Famous Greek Architecture Examples and Architects

The Acropolis of Athens

The Acropolis is a fortified complex of buildings—many of which designed to honor the Greek gods—built in the fifth century BCE atop a hill in Athens. The site includes the Propylaia, the Erechtheion, the Temple of Athena Nike, and the Parthenon—a temple to the goddess Athena. “The Parthenon is rightly famous, although it is one of the most enigmatic and strange Greek temples ever built,” says Dr. Paga. “Almost every element of the Parthenon is ‘weird.’” For example, the structure features eight Doric columns along the front, while the majority of Greek temples only had six columns on the short end. It also includes an Ionic frieze (despite its Doric columns) as well as a back room. Additionally, Dr. Paga says that despite the Parthenon’s lasting legacy, the Erechtheion was actually the most important building to the Greeks at the time.

Temple of Zeus at Olympia

Located at the home of the Olympic games, Dr. Paga says this temple is a fairly “standard” example of Greek design, though built on a much larger scale than others.

By Madeline Bilis

By Audrey Lee

By Katie Schultz

Temple of Neptune

The ancient city of Paestum, or Poseidonia, which was founded on the coast of Southern Italy around 600 BCE, is home to a number of well-preserved Doric temples, including the Temple of Hera, the Temple of Athena, and a second Temple of Hera (also called the Temple of Neptune or Poseidon), seen above.

Temple of Apollo

Located at the lower slope of Greece’s Mount Parnassus, the sanctuary of Delphi was one of the most important places in the ancient world. The site comprises the Temple of Apollo, constructed in 510 BCE; the Athenian Treasury; the Sanctuary of Athena Pronaia, which includes the circular Tholos; a theater; and a gymnasium.

Terrace of the Naxian Lions

In Greek mythology, the island of Delos was the birthplace of the gods Apollo and Artemis. The ancient commercial center was notable for its elaborate homes, the Temple of Apollo, and the Terrace of the Naxian Lions.

By Jessica Cherner

By Natalia Rachlin

By Lola Ogunnaike

By Laura May Todd

• Help & FAQ

Greek and Roman Architectural Theory

• Department of Architecture & Civil Engineering

Research output : Chapter or section in a book/report/conference proceeding › Chapter or section

Access to Document

• 10.1093/oxfordhb/9780199783304.013.002

Fingerprint

• Architectural Theory Arts & Humanities 100%
• Treatise Arts & Humanities 24%
• Architectura Arts & Humanities 23%
• Roman Architecture Arts & Humanities 23%
• Vitruvius Arts & Humanities 20%
• Decor Arts & Humanities 19%
• Ancient Rome Arts & Humanities 17%
• Classical Age Arts & Humanities 16%

T1 - Greek and Roman Architectural Theory

AU - Wilson Jones, Mark

PY - 2014/11/1

Y1 - 2014/11/1

N2 - This chapter examines the theory of Greek and Roman architecture. It begins by considering the traditional understanding of theory as more important than practice before turning to a discussion of Vitruvius’s treatise De architectura and his theory on architecture, particularly his ideas about the principles of symmetria, eurythmia, and decor. It then explores the design of ancient buildings and the theories underlying their construction. It shows that theoretical aspects of architecture emerged in ancient Greece and Rome over the course of the Classical and Hellenistic periods, which were consolidated by Vitruvius in his treatise. The chapter concludes by highlighting how theory related in a meaningful way to practice.

AB - This chapter examines the theory of Greek and Roman architecture. It begins by considering the traditional understanding of theory as more important than practice before turning to a discussion of Vitruvius’s treatise De architectura and his theory on architecture, particularly his ideas about the principles of symmetria, eurythmia, and decor. It then explores the design of ancient buildings and the theories underlying their construction. It shows that theoretical aspects of architecture emerged in ancient Greece and Rome over the course of the Classical and Hellenistic periods, which were consolidated by Vitruvius in his treatise. The chapter concludes by highlighting how theory related in a meaningful way to practice.

U2 - 10.1093/oxfordhb/9780199783304.013.002

DO - 10.1093/oxfordhb/9780199783304.013.002

M3 - Chapter or section

BT - The Oxford Handbook of Greek and Roman Art and Architecture

A2 - Marconi, Clemente

PB - Oxford University Press

CY - Oxford and New York

• History Classics
• Your Profile
• Find History on Facebook (Opens in a new window)
• Find History on Twitter (Opens in a new window)
• Find History on YouTube (Opens in a new window)
• Find History on Instagram (Opens in a new window)
• Find History on TikTok (Opens in a new window)
• This Day In History
• History Podcasts
• History Vault

Ancient Greece

By: History.com Editors

Updated: March 13, 2024 | Original: March 5, 2010

The term Ancient, or Archaic, Greece refers to the years 700-480 B.C. The period is known for its art, architecture and philosophy. Ancient Greece saw advances in art, poetry and technology, and is known as the age in which the polis, or city-state, was invented. The polis became the defining feature of Greek political life for hundreds of years.

The Birth of the City-State

During the so-called “Greek Dark Ages” before the Archaic period, people lived scattered throughout Greece in small farming villages. As they grew larger, these villages began to evolve. Some built walls, most built a marketplace (an agora) and a community meeting place. 

They developed governments and organized their citizens according to some sort of constitution or set of laws. They raised armies and collected taxes. And every one of these city-states (known as poleis) was said to be protected by a particular god or goddess, to whom the citizens of the polis owed a great deal of reverence, respect and sacrifice. (Athens’ deity was Athena, for example; so was Sparta’s.)

Though their citizens had in common what Herodotus called “the same stock and the same speech, our shared temples of the gods and religious rituals, our similar customs,” every Greek city-state was different. The largest, Sparta , controlled about 300 square miles of territory; the smallest had just a few hundred people. 

Did you know? Greek military leaders trained the heavily armed hoplite soldiers to fight in a massive formation called a phalanx: standing shoulder to shoulder, the men were protected by their neighbor's shield. This intimidating technique played an important role in the Persian Wars and helped the Greeks build their empire.

However, by the dawn of the Archaic period in the seventh century B.C., the city-states had developed a number of common characteristics. They all had economies that were based on agriculture, not trade: For this reason, land was every city-state’s most valuable resource. Also, most had overthrown their hereditary kings, or basileus, and were ruled by a small number of wealthy aristocrats.

These people monopolized political power. (For example, they refused to let ordinary people serve on councils or assemblies.) They also monopolized the best farmland, and some even claimed to be descended from the Greek gods . Because “the poor with their wives and children were enslaved to the rich and had no political rights,” Aristotle said, “there was conflict between the nobles and the people for a long time.”

Colonization

Emigration was one way to relieve some of this tension. Land was the most important source of wealth in the city-states; it was also, obviously, in finite supply. The pressure of population growth pushed many men away from their home poleis and into sparsely populated areas around Greece and the Aegean. 

Between 750 B.C. and 600 B.C., Greek colonies sprang up from the Mediterranean to Asia Minor, from North Africa to the coast of the Black Sea. By the end of the seventh century B.C., there were more than 1,500 colonial poleis.

Each of these poleis was an independent city-state. In this way, the colonies of the Archaic period were different from other colonies we are familiar with: The people who lived there were not ruled by or bound to the city-states from which they came. The new poleis were self-governing and self-sufficient.

The Rise of the Tyrants

As time passed and their populations grew, many of these agricultural city-states began to produce consumer goods such as pottery, cloth, wine and metalwork. Trade in these goods made some people—usually not members of the old aristocracy—very wealthy. These people resented the unchecked power of the oligarchs and banded together, sometimes with the aid of heavily-armed soldiers called hoplites, to put new leaders in charge.

These leaders were known as tyrants. Some tyrants turned out to be just as autocratic as the oligarchs they replaced, while others proved to be enlightened leaders. (Pheidon of Argos established an orderly system of weights and measures, for instance, while Theagenes of Megara brought running water to his city.) However, their rule did not last: The classical period brought with it a series of political reforms that created the system of Ancient Greek democracy known as demokratia, or “rule by the people.”

Archaic Renaissance?

The colonial migrations of the Archaic period had an important effect on its art and literature: They spread Greek styles far and wide and encouraged people from all over to participate in the era’s creative revolutions. 

The epic poet Homer, from Ionia, produced his “Iliad” and “Odyssey” during the Archaic period. Sculptors created kouroi and korai, carefully proportioned human figures that served as memorials to the dead. Scientists and mathematicians made progress too: Anaximandros devised a theory of gravity; Xenophanes wrote about his discovery of fossils and Pythagoras of Kroton discovered his famous Pythagorean Theorem.

The economic, political, technological and artistic developments of the Archaic period readied the Greek city-states for the monumental changes of the next few centuries.

HISTORY Vault: Ancient Top 10

A smart, fun countdown that details how ancient technology worked, how surprisingly advanced it was, and how it was kind of awesome!

Sign up for Inside History

Get HISTORY’s most fascinating stories delivered to your inbox three times a week.

By submitting your information, you agree to receive emails from HISTORY and A+E Networks. You can opt out at any time. You must be 16 years or older and a resident of the United States.

More details : Privacy Notice | Terms of Use | Contact Us

145 Ancient Greece Research Topics and Essay Ideas

🏆 best greek topics to write about, 💡 most interesting ancient greece topics for research, 📌 simple & easy topics about ancient greece, 👍 good ancient greece writing prompts, ❓ research questions about ancient greece.

• Mesopotamian and Ancient Greek Civilizations Comparison Socially, the two civilizations were very different; the Greeks were known for their strong sense of democracy, while the Mesopotamians were ruled by kings and queens. The ancient Mesopotamian and Greek civilizations were two of […]
• Ancient Greek Mythical Characters The story of Icarus and Daedalus is told in a Roman source, Ovid’s “Metamorphoses”; the Isle of Crete was blocked by the order of King Minos, but Daedalus wanted to return to his home, Athens. We will write a custom essay specifically for you by our professional experts 808 writers online Learn More
• Mathematics in Ancient Greek Architecture One of the pillars of the art of architecture has been mathematics, and the development of this science in Ancient Greece enabled Ancient Greek architects to create beautiful buildings.
• The Concept of Deduction in Ancient Greek and Egyptian Mathematics The work of the famous and great Ancient Greek mathematicians has played a vital role in permeating every aspect, section, and part of life, especially from the sector of sending the rockets into space, accounting, […]
• Art History: Female Figures in Ancient Greek Sculpture The development of female figures in ancient Greek sculpture was noticeable during those times; each period added something new; the influence of other countries and their cultures was reflected in almost each piece of work, […]
• Comparison Between Ancient Egypt and Ancient Greece’s Burial Rituals On the other hand, the burial rituals of the ancient Greeks in the period of 750BCE and 700BCE were affected by the age of geometry.
• BBC Ancient Greece: The Greatest Show on Earth The presenter of this video talks about the importance of theater culture to the people of ancient Athens. In the days of the ancient Greeks, the people of Athens learned the latest news from theatrical […]
• The Architecture of Ancient Greece Found in Los Angeles This paper is aimed at presenting an exploration of the reinterpretations of the stylistics period of the Ancient Greek epitomized in the architecture of the ancient Greece.
• The Role of Poets and the Place of Poetry in Ancient Greece The Muse is the giver of gifts and in this case it is the gift to create words that are melodious to the ear but at the same time the power to move the hearts […]
• Ancient Greek Philosophers: A Critical Evaluation of Their Impact on Modern Thought However, according to the article, it is imperative to note that neither reason nor the quest for evidence started with the ancient Greeks, but the pre-Socratic philosophers endeavored to identify a single underlying standard that […]
• Ancient Greek Culture, Philosophy and Science A few early Greek philosophers of the 6th century BCE began forming theories about the natural formations of the cosmos that went beyond the commonly held beliefs of the divine beings in the sky2.
• Suffering in the Ancient, Roman and Greek Periods It can be noted that in all cases suffering was seen as evil in some quarters of the ancient world as is seen today.
• Mythology’s Role in the Ancient Greece – God Poseidon He was believed to be the creator and the controller of the sea therefore, people gave him respect and they make him to become angry. Poseidon was a god of the sea and therefore was […]
• History: Ancient Greek Olympics Hence, the myth concerning the emergence of the Olympic Games involves Zeus. The Olympic Games owed their integrity and significance to religion.
• Comparing and Contrasting the Confucius Ideas With Ancient Greek Thinkers As far as the body and the soul interacted, Plato also commented on the things that the soul could be influenced by the work or the actions of the body.
• Ancient Egypt vs. Ancient Greece In this paper, the researcher seeks to investigate the extent to which Ancient Egypt became Greek and the extent to which it remained the same during and after the rule by Ancient Greece.
• Ancient Greek vs. Roman Sculpture in the Late Classical Period The left-hand drops her clothes onto the jar of water, the head is turned to the left, and the right hand is extended in front of the pudenda.
• Ancient Greek Civilization: Culture and Arts To begin with, the earliest period of Greek history was the Bronze, and it is characterized by the usage and production of essential tools and the formation of two civilizations, which further contributed to the […]
• Public Speaking in Ancient Greece and Roman Empire With this in mind, investigation of some main peculiarities of the development of art of public speaking public can help to understand its peculiarities better.
• The Ancient Greek Society: Role of Religion In the cultural sense, the phrase ‘ancient Greece’ refers to the way of life of the ancient Greek people as depicted in their mode of worship, language, governance, entertainment and their understanding of the physical […]
• Polytheism of Ancient Greek and Babylonians Compared Turning on to the cult and political organization the gods do participate in the political and governance structures of the societies.
• Ancient Greece Heroes: The Iliad and The Knight’s Tale It is rather tempting to see the later work as a reflection of the ancient Greek story, but Chaucer’s work is rather a re-evaluation of the old story.
• City States in Ancient Greece and Renaissance Italy Similarities According to Spencer the invasion by the Dorians was one reason that strengthened the growth of the city states. In Italy, the city-states authority belonged to rich and the gentries.
• Ancient Greek History: Athens The works of these historians give an opportunity to state that in spite of the fighting and dying in wars, the Athenians contributed to the good of their polis.
• Deduction in Ancient Greece and Egypt Mathematics and the use of formulas have played an important role in the development of the modern world. The Golden Ratio concept was used in this part of the world.
• The Democracies of Ancient Greece and the Roman Republic Any democracy which, at least formally, is based on the power of the majority, equality of citizens, protection of their rights and freedoms, a system of separation of powers, and electability of authorities implies a […]
• Culture of Ancient Greece in The Odyssey by Homer The Odyssey is one of the oldest and most well-known epics in the world. This can be attributed to Homer’s ability to describe the culture and life of the people of the ancient era with […]
• The Ancient Greek Culture Impact on Western Civilization The most significant public structures in the city were gathered around the temple in the city’s center, which served as the power headquarters.
• Art of Ancient Greece: The Diadoumenos Statue The marble statue of the Diadoumenos depicts an athlete with a victory armband and is a reconstruction of the original based on Roman marble spears. Polykleitos’ sculpture is a typical example of the classical period […]
• Ancient History of Greek Civilization In ancient Greece, the body was the material means of constructing and transmitting social values; the body’s visual representation exemplified the moral codes of the time.
• The Art of Ancient Greece: The Marble Head of Athena The art of Ancient Greece played an essential role in the development of the culture and art of humankind. In Greece, the first principles of democracy in history were formed within the framework of a […]
• Democracy in Ancient Greece and Today From the lecture, I discovered that the word democracy partly originates from the word demes which means the small division of the bigger sections that Athens was divided into during the ancient time.
• Venus de Milo, Sculpture of Ancient Greece Art The statue also depicts the story of the Judgment of Paris. The findspot of the figure of the goddess is still unknown, and it cannot be said where exactly it was found.
• The Impact of Ancient Greek Civilization and Architecture on Modern Culture The connection between ancient Greek architecture and modern culture in the United States is evident because of the presence of similar constructions and continuous use of terms that originated from that civilization.
• Visual Arts: Ancient Art of the Greeks Ancient art plays a significant role in helping the individuals of the current generation explain the civilizations of the ancient past. Fresco painted the Bull-leaping fresco from Knossos art to depict the civilizations of the […]
• History of Ancient Greek It was the accuracy and correctness of the prediction that daunted astronomers for years to come. This event hailed a new set of astronomers who tried to figure out the means to predict such future […]
• Art History: The Prehistoric Aegean, Ancient Greece The relationship between curvilinear forms in Minoan art and the primary role of nature is that nature provided the curvilinear shapes and forms that formed the basis for the artwork.
• The Mindset and Ancient Greek Philosophy Metaphysics studies the nature of reality, the structure of the world, the origin of man, God, truth, matter, mind, the connection between mind, body, and free will, and the correlation between events.
• Ancient Greek History: The Most Important Events of the Period Ancient Greece was home for most of the famous personalities of the ancient world. The introduction of Olympic Games was one of the most significant events in Ancient Greek History.
• Ancient Egyptian and Greece Literature The history of literature began in the Bronze Age with the invention of writing in Mesopotamia and Ancient Egypt. In Egypt, hieroglyphs and the similarity of drawings were used for writing.
• Scientific Approach to Magic in Ancient Greece 2 The dual attitude towards magic in Ancient Greece is deeply rooted in those people’s focus on knowledge and the use of the scientific method that was born during that period.
• Women in Ancient Greek and Roman Art The ancient Greek and Roman art, both textual and visual, are a rich source of information on the social history of women in these cultures.
• The Ancient Greek and Republican Roman Architects The ancient Greek and Roman architects sought to express cultural and aesthetic perspectives guided by the adoration of classical qualities such as maturity, moderation, order, balance, and harmony.
• Ancient Greek Mythology: Deities of the Universe Hades is the eldest son of Kronos and Rhea, the god and the guardian of the Underworld, the realm of the dead.
• Democracy Emergence in Ancient Greece and Why Plato Was Opposed to It The result of this war was the defeat of Athens by Sparta at the end of the fifth century which led to the overthrow of many democratic regimes.
• The Hetaerae Women of Ancient Greece In the Greek society, the hetaerae women consisted of women who were liberal and commanded great influence in the society. The hetaerae women were noble in one aspect of the other.
• Oedipus the King and Ancient Greek Culture Oedipus consults the servant who was sent to abandon him as a child and it is revealed that he was the child of Laius and Jocasta.
• Origin of the Olympics in the Ancient Greek Society It exhaustively explains the importance of the Olympic Games to the Greek society in the ancient times and the significance they played in shaping the locals lives.
• Western Civilization: Ancient Greek Theater However, the modern theater has become more commercialized and has become a potential arena of political, social, and cultural discourses, increasingly involving the masses.”Theatre, which had been dominated by the Church for centuries, and then […]
• Democracy and Dictatorship in Ancient Greece and Today Recalling the speech of Thucydides, democracy is when the power is in the hands of not a minority but of the whole people when all are equal before the law when political life is free […]
• Machiavelli: Modern Philosophy Against Ancient Greek The main purpose of current research is to understand the main points of significant departure Machiavelli’s model of politics, state, and ethics comprehension from Ancient Greek philosophy represented in the works of such thinkers like […]
• The Changes of the Ancient Greeks’ Conceptions of Heroism Through the Times According to the primary task of the essay, it is necessary to say, that the characters of Iliad, Odysseus, and the conclusions by Socrates belong to various epochs of Greek history.
• The Culture of Ancient Greece The Archaic period and the Classical periods are separated by the Persian Wars and the reign of Alexander the Great is taken as separating the Classical from the Hellenistic periods.
• Ancient Greece: Relief of the Temple of Artemis The statute represented on the relief of the Temple of Artemis is one of the typical examples of Ancient Greek sculpture.
• Ancient Greek Sports: Boxing, Wrestling, Running So, one can conclude that the cruelty of a blow increased, and for this reason, ancient gloves can be regarded to be offensive weapons.
• Ancient Greek and Roman Myth Characters Romulus is the legendary founder of the city of Rome, a son of Rhea Silvia the Vestal and Mars the God of War.
• Ancient Greek Temples Architecture This temple was built using the Ionic order and formed the Seven Wonders of the World. Another known and oldest temple that used this order is the Apollo Bassae constructed in 420 BC.
• Ancient India and Greece Sculptures Comparison As far as the key differences between the Ancient Indian and the Ancient Greek sculptures are concerned, the concept of aesthetics deserves to be mentioned.
• Ancient Greek Philosophy: Socrates and Plato Comparison Being the most praised Socrates pupil, he devoted a lot of his works to Socrates figure, trying to investigate his point of view and present it to the audience.
• Ancient Greek Art and Sculpture It is possible to trace this change through examining two sculptures pertaining to different periods of Ancient Greek art. Of course, to understand art, it is necessary to understand the epoch.
• Greek City-States – Ancient History Using the case of the early Greek poleis, this paper shows that commercialisation and changing attitudes about leadership have changed the nature of states.
• The Philosophy of Ancient Greece Overall, it is possible to argue that the philosophy of ancient Greece is mostly associated with the names of such prominent thinkers as Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle.
• Ancient Greek Civilization History He criticized the government for tyranny and as a result, he is considered the father of democracy in Greek Sacred disease refers to epilepsy.
• Infanticide in Ancient Greece In most ancient societies, children were the property of the parents, and those children who the parents deemed unfit were killed or sold into slavery.
• Ancient Greek Democracy That Still Makes People Strive for Perfection Thus, Greek dreams of a perfect society where everyone is happy resulted in the creation of the first democracy in the world.
• Music in the Ancient Greece The history of music in ancient Greece dates back to the 6th century BCE when the first music lessons were introduced in the learning institutions. The ‘clappers’ were the other category of music instruments that […]
• Transformation of the Ancient Greece Art At first, it is necessary to examine the sculptural works which belong to the archaic period of the Greek culture. The techniques that one can see in the sculptures of the Archaic Period were rejected.
• Ancient Art of Rome and Greece The Augustus has a visual texture of smoothness on the body parts, but a rough texture on the clothes adorned on the image.
• Concepts of Ancient Greek Culture In particular, one can speak about the establishment of a civic state, the adoption of new approaches to education and science, the development of new artistic forms, and more critical attitude toward those people who […]
• The Ancient Greek Play Antigone by Sophocle In the play, it is evident that pride is used by people to create laws that challenge the divine law from gods.
• The Evolution of the Division of Labor Theory Starting From Ancient Greek Economists to the Present The theories of other great economists on the division of labor theory will also be explored and finally comparing them to the modern theory of division of labor.
• Gods and Humans: Myths of Ancient Rome and Greece Remembering the main idea of the myths which is to portray the creation of the specific natural phenomena via the God’s actions, the relationships between people and Gods cannot be rejected in the book.
• Pride in Ancient Greek This paper discusses the character and behavior of two Heroes in the Iliad with the aim of explaining the Geeks’ concept of pride.
• Women’s Roles in Ancient Greece and Rome
• Water and Womanhood in Ancient Greece
• The Significance of Honor and Respect in Ancient Greece
• The Goddess of Love, Desire, and Beauty, Aphrodite, was Worshipped by Ancient Greece for Many More Reason
• Humanity As In Ancient Greece An Analysis Of Greek Influence And Literature
• Women in Time: Ancient Greece and 19th Century Norway
• To What Extent Has the Theater of Ancient Greece Changed the Acts of Modern Day Theater
• The History and Use of Pantomime in Theatrical Dance from Ancient Greece to Ballet D’Action
• Types Of Governments Of Ancient Greece And Rome
• How the Texts of Architects Vincent Scully and R.E. Wycherley Depict the Culture of Ancient Greece
• The Worship of the Roman Dionysos in Ancient Greece
• Women in Lysistrata and Women of Ancient Greece
• The Study of Behaviorism in the Ancient Greece in the 19th and 20th Centuries
• The Importance Of Hospitality In Ancient Greece Versus The Dark Ages
• What Role Did Socrates Play in Ancient Greece
• The Value of the Individual, Virtue, Honor, Humanity, and Love in Ancient Greece
• The Importance of the Fertility Goddesses Demeter and Persephone in the Society of Ancient Greece
• The Strict Laws and Penalties in Ancient Greece Market Places and the Male Domination in Greek Societis
• The Topic Of Fate Of Ancient Greece During The Golden Age
• Women of Ancient Greece and Rome
• Things Fall Apart:The Cultures of Ancient Greece and The Lower Niger
• The Forms in Which Theater and Drama Took in Ancient Greece in the 5th Century
• The Importance of Athletics in Ancient Greece and the History of the Olympics
• How Did Ancient Greece Influence Western Civilization
• Feminism And The Power Struggle Of Women In Ancient Greece
• The Influence and Effects of Geography on the Economic, Religious, Philosophy, Art and Literature Advancement of Ancient Greece
• The Portrayal and Views on Women in Ancient Greece
• The Perception of Gender in the Literature of Ancient Greece and Middle Age
• The Impact Of Freedom On Ancient Greece And Modern America
• The Insignificance Of Women And Ancient Greece
• The Olympic Games: its Origins, Sources and Images in the Art of Ancient Greece
• Exploring the Integrity of Gender Distinctions Made in the Literature on Ancient Greece
• What Features of Modern Europe Have Been Traced Back to Ancient Greece and Rome
• The Role Of Women In Ancient Greece As Depicted In Homer’s The Odyssey
• The Prejudiced Attitude on the Role of Women in Ancient Greece
• The Question of Infanticide in Ancient Greece Based on Several Texts
• The Role of Gods and Their Human-like Personalities in Ancient Greece
• The Roles of Women in Ancient Greece and the Reasons for their Subordina
• The Legend of Oedipus the King of Thebes in Ancient Greece
• The Relationship Between Slave and Master in Ancient Greece
• The Music of Ancient Greece and the Instruments We Still Use Today
• The Significance of the Tragic Plays Written by Sophocles in Ancient Greece
• How Did Ancient Greece’s Geography Affect Its Civilization?
• What Role Did Socrates Play in Ancient Greece?
• How Has the American Society Been Influenced by Ancient Greece?
• What Was Greek Law?
• Why Was Ancient Greece the First Civilization to Develop Democracy?
• What Role Did Tribalism and Racism Play in Ancient Greece?
• How Did Ancient Greece Influence Western Civilization?
• What Were the Characteristics of Oligarchy and Democracy in Ancient Greece?
• Who Did the Ancient Greeks Worship?
• What Was the Importance of Religion in Ancient Greece?
• Who Was a Citizen in Ancient Greece?
• What Were the Ancient Athenians Like?
• Was Greek Law Formally Written Down?
• What Rights Did Women Have in Ancient Greece?
• Who/What Are the Main Legends and Myths About?
• What Is the History Behind the Olympics Games?
• Who Were Slaves in Ancient Greece?
• What Did the Theaters Look Like in Ancient Greece?
• Who Were the Famous Mathematicians or Philosophers of Ancient Greece?
• What Was “Medicine” Like in Ancient Greece?
• How Were Plato’s Divisions Different From Athenian Democracy?
• What Are the “Famous” Wars From Ancient Greece?
• How Did Athenian Democracy Differ From Modern Democracy?
• What Were the Major Ancient Greek City-States?
• Exactly What Was the Oracle at Delphi and How Did It Work?
• What Were the People Like in Ancient Greece?
• Why Did Greece Spread So Far West and South?
• What Was the New Idea of Male Homosexuality About in Ancient Greece? How Was It Derived?
• What Was the True Name of Ancient Greece?
• How Were the Ancient Greeks Influential?
• Chicago (A-D)
• Chicago (N-B)

IvyPanda. (2024, February 21). 145 Ancient Greece Research Topics and Essay Ideas. https://ivypanda.com/essays/topic/ancient-greece-essay-topics/

"145 Ancient Greece Research Topics and Essay Ideas." IvyPanda , 21 Feb. 2024, ivypanda.com/essays/topic/ancient-greece-essay-topics/.

IvyPanda . (2024) '145 Ancient Greece Research Topics and Essay Ideas'. 21 February.

IvyPanda . 2024. "145 Ancient Greece Research Topics and Essay Ideas." February 21, 2024. https://ivypanda.com/essays/topic/ancient-greece-essay-topics/.

1. IvyPanda . "145 Ancient Greece Research Topics and Essay Ideas." February 21, 2024. https://ivypanda.com/essays/topic/ancient-greece-essay-topics/.

Bibliography

IvyPanda . "145 Ancient Greece Research Topics and Essay Ideas." February 21, 2024. https://ivypanda.com/essays/topic/ancient-greece-essay-topics/.

• Aristotle Titles
• Homer Titles
• Greek Mythology Titles
• History Topics
• Alexander The Great Topics
• World History Topics
• Ancient Civilizations Research Topics
• Roman Empire Ideas
• Anglo-Saxons Questions
• Augustus Topics
• Aztec Paper Topics
• Byzantine Empire Essay Ideas
• Cleopatra Topics
• Ancient History Topics
• Mayan Research Ideas

Points About Ancient Greek History

Major Topics in Ancient Greek History You Should Know

• Figures & Events
• Ancient Languages
• Mythology & Religion
• American History
• African American History
• African History
• Asian History
• European History
• Latin American History
• Medieval & Renaissance History
• Military History
• The 20th Century
• Women's History
• M.A., Linguistics, University of Minnesota
• B.A., Latin, University of Minnesota

Greece, now a country in the Aegean, was a collection of independent city-states or poleis in antiquity that we know about archaeologically from the Bronze Age on. These poleis fought among one another and against bigger external forces, especially the Persians. Eventually, they were conquered by their neighbors to the north and then later became part of the Roman Empire. After the western Roman Empire fell, the Greek-speaking area of the Empire continued until 1453, when it fell to the Turks.

The Lay of the Land - Geography of Greece

Greece, a country in southeastern Europe whose peninsula extends from the Balkans into the Mediterranean Sea, is mountainous, with many gulfs and bays. Some areas of Greece are filled with forests. Much of Greece is stony and suitable only for pasturage, but other areas are suitable for growing wheat, barley, citrus, dates, and olives.

Prehistory: Before Greek Writing

Prehistoric Greece includes that period known to us through archaeology rather than writing. The Minoans and Mycenaeans with their bullfights and labyrinths come from this period. The Homeric epics—the Iliad and the Odyssey—describe valiant heroes and kings from the prehistoric Bronze Age of Greece. After the Trojan Wars, the Greeks were shuffled around the peninsula because of invaders the Greeks called Dorians.

• What Are the Letters of the Greek Alphabet?
• An Introduction to the Development of the Greek Alphabet

Greek Colonies

There were two main periods of colonial expansion among the ancient Greeks. The first was in the Dark Ages when the Greeks thought the Dorians invaded. See Dark Age Migrations . The second period of colonization began in the 8th century when Greeks founded cities in southern Italy and Sicily. The Achaeans founded Sybaris was an Achaean colony perhaps founded in 720 B.C. The Achaeans also founded Croton. Corinth was the mother city of Syracuse. The territory in Italy colonized by the Greeks was known as Magna Graecia (Great Greece). Greeks also settled colonies northward up to the Black (or Euxine) Sea.

Greeks set up colonies for many reasons, including trade and to provide land for the landless. They held close ties to the mother city.

The Social Groups of Early Athens

Early Athens had the household or oikos as its basic unit. There were also progressively larger groups, genos, phratry, and tribe. Three phratries formed a tribe (or phylai) headed by a tribal king. The earliest known function of the tribes was military. They were corporate bodies with their own priests and officials, as well as military and administrative units. There were four original tribes in Athens.

• Archaic Greece
• Classical Greece

The Acropolis - Athens' Fortified Hilltop

The civic life of ancient Athens was in the agora, like the Romans' forum. The Acropolis housed the temple of the patron goddess Athena, and had, since early times, been a protected area. Long walls extending to the harbor prevented the Athenians from starving in case they were besieged.

Democracy Evolves in Athens

Originally kings ruled the Greek states, but as they urbanized, the kings were replaced by a rule by the nobles, an oligarchy. In Sparta, the kings remained, possibly because they didn't have too much power since the power was split in 2, but elsewhere the kings were replaced.

Land Shortage was among the precipitating factors leading to the rise of democracy in Athens. So was the rise of the non-equestrian army. Cylon and Draco helped create a uniform law code for all Athenians that furthered the progress to democracy. Then came the poet-politician Solon , who set up a constitution, followed by Cleisthenes , who had to iron out the problems Solon left behind, and in the process increased from 4 to 10 the number of tribes.

Sparta - The Military Polis

Sparta started with small city-states (poleis) and tribal kings, like Athens, but it developed differently. It forced the native population on the neighboring land to work for the Spartans, and it maintained kings alongside an aristocratic oligarchy. The fact that it had two kings may have been what saved the institution since each king could have prevented the other from becoming too abusive of his power. Sparta was known for its lack of luxury and physically strong population. It was also known as the one place in Greece where women had some power and could own property.

The Greco-Persian Wars - Persian Wars Under Xerxes and Darius

The Persian Wars are usually dated 492-449/448 B.C. However, a conflict started between the Greek poleis in Ionia and the Persian Empire before 499 B.C. There were two mainland invasions of Greece, in 490 (under King Darius) and 480-479 B.C. (under King Xerxes). The Persian Wars ended with the Peace of Callias of 449, but by this time, and as a result of actions taken in Persian War battles, Athens had developed her own empire. Conflict mounted between the Athenians and the allies of Sparta. This conflict would lead to the Peloponnesian War.

Greeks were also involved in ​the conflict with the Persians when they hired on as mercenaries of King Cyrus (401-399) and Persians aided the Spartans during the Peloponnesian War.

The Peloponnesian League was an alliance of mostly the city-states of the Peloponnese led by Sparta . Formed in the 6th century, it became one of the two sides fighting during the Peloponnesian War (431-404).

The Peloponnesian War - Greek Against Greek

The Peloponnesian War (431-404) was fought between two groups of Greek allies. One was the Peloponnesian League, which had Sparta as its leader and included Corinth. The other leader was Athens who had control of the Delian League. The Athenians lost, putting an effective end to the Classical Age of Greece. Sparta dominated the Greek world.

Thucydides and Xenophon are the major contemporary sources on the Peloponnesian War.

Philip and Alexander the Great - Macedonian Conquerors of Greece

Philip II (382 - 336 B.C.) with his son Alexander the Great conquered the Greeks and expanded the empire, taking Thrace, Thebes, Syria, Phoenicia, Mesopotamia, Assyria, Egypt, and on to the Punjab, in northern India. Alexander founded possibly more than 70 cities throughout the Mediterranean region and east to India, spreading trade and the culture of the Greeks wherever he went.

When Alexander the Great died, his empire was divided into ​three parts: Macedonia and Greece, ruled by Antigonus, founder of the Antigonid dynasty; the Near East, ruled by Seleucus , founder of the Seleucid dynasty ; and Egypt, where the general Ptolemy started the Ptolemid dynasty. The empire was wealthy thanks to the conquered Persians. With this wealth, building and other cultural programs were established in each region

Macedonian Wars - Rome Gains Power Over Greece

Greece was at odds with Macedonia, again, and sought the help of the budding Roman Empire. It came, helped them get rid of the northern menace, but when they were called back repeatedly, their policy gradually changed and Greece became part of the Roman Empire.

Byzantine Empire - The Greek Roman Empire

The fourth-century A.D. Roman emperor Constantine established a capital city in Greece, at Constantinople or Byzantium. When the Roman Empire "fell" in the following century, only the western emperor Romulus Augustulus was deposed. The Byzantine Greek-speaking part of the empire continued until it fell to the Ottoman Turks about a millennium later in 1453.

• 30 Maps of Ancient Greece Show How a Country Became an Empire
• Rise to Power of Sparta
• Political Aspects of the Classical Age of Greece
• The Peloponnesian War: Causes of the Conflict
• Formation of the Delian League
• A Short Summary of the Persian Wars
• 7 Points to Know About Ancient Greek Government
• Major Events in Ancient History
• The Thirty Tyrants After the Peloponnesian War
• Biography of Alcibiades, Ancient Greek Soldier-Politician
• Timeline of the Persian Wars 492-449
• Greece - Fast Facts About Greece
• How Athenian Democracy Developed in 7 Stages
• The Start of the Persian Wars
• The Age of Pericles and Periclean Athens
• The Heroes of Ancient Greece and Rome

Custom Essay, Term Paper & Research paper writing services

• testimonials

Toll Free: +1 (888) 354-4744

Email: [email protected]

Writing custom essays & research papers since 2008

115 awesome architecture research topics: useful list of ideas.

If you are reading this, it means you need to write an excellent architectural research paper and need some help choosing the topic. The good news is that our expert writers have just updated our list of 115 unique architecture research topics.

This means you can find some original ideas right here on this page. Of course, you can use any of our ideas for free – as long as you get an A+ on your next research paper.

Writing an Architecture Essay Quickly

If you are like most students, you probably don’t know how to write complex architecture research papers quickly. This can be a real problem, especially if you need to finish your essay quickly. After all, you probably have several other school projects to focus on – not to mention tests and exams. This is why we will give you more than just awesome architecture research paper topics. We will help you with a guide on how to write a great paper quickly:

• First, go through our architectural research topics and pick the one you like the most.
• Write a thesis statement. In a sentence, tell your readers what your paper aims to demonstrate.
• Write an introduction for your essay. This is where you present your thesis statement and tell your audience a bit more about the subject.
• Write three or more body paragraphs, each dealing with a single idea. Generally, you will start the paragraph with a clear statement and then use the rest of the paragraph to bring evidence in support of your statement.
• Write a conclusion for your research paper. Most often, it’s enough to restate the thesis and summarize all your findings. Tell your audience how your findings support your thesis and wrap everything up with a call to action (this is optional).
• Edit your work and delete parts that are redundant, don’t make sense or are simply unnecessary. Add more content to parts that need it.
• Proofread your work at least twice. Who wants to lose some points over silly mistakes like typos or spelling errors?

Best Architectural Topics for Research

Now that you know what you need to do to write a paper quickly, you probably want to minimize the time you spend searching for architectural topics for research. This is where we can definitely help you. Take a look at our list of 115 awesome architecture paper topics and use as many of them as you like. All of them are 100% free!

Interesting Questions About Architecture

Here are some interesting questions about architecture that should fire up your creative engine:

• What are the costs of an architect?
• Is concrete obsolete in 2023?
• How long does it take to design a unique skyscraper?
• What are the worst architectural mistakes of the 1900s?
• What does an architect really do?
• How do you pick the right architect for a major project?
• What is the worst thing about architecture in the UK?
• Is architecture an artistic profession?
• What are the expected advancements in architecture in 2023?
• How long will we continue to use steel?
• What are the best ways to design a skyscraper?
• Is architecture a creative profession?
• Why is planning a bridge so difficult?

Easy Research Topics in Architecture

If you don’t want to spend more than a few hours working on your architecture paper, we have a list of easy research topics in architecture right here:

• A short history of architecture in the United States
• Discuss urban planning in Eastern Europe
• Talk about maritime technology
• Ancient Greek architecture
• Talk about metal fatigue in skyscrapers
• Is it difficult being an architect?
• Ancient Roman architecture
• The importance of restoring heritage buildings
• Talk about innovations in bridge design
• Architecture in Asian countries
• Planning a new urban park in your neighborhood
• Discuss climate control in modern buildings
• Architecture in African countries

Topics Related to Public Structures

Designing public structures is not an easy thing to do, but writing a paper about them shouldn’t be too difficult. Here are some nice topics related to public structures:

• An in-depth look at the design of the Lincoln Memorial
• Design the plan of a new bank in your neighborhood
• Designing a new skyscraper in your city
• An in-depth look at the design of the Empire State Building
• Building the latest public service building in the city
• A space research center in Colorado Springs
• An in-depth look at the design of the White House
• Research the design of the United States Capitol building
• The Golden Gate Bridge: an innovative design

Top Ideas Related to Urban Planning

Interested in talking about urban planning? No problem, we can help. Take a look at our list of top ideas related to urban planning:

• An in-depth look at bicycle transportation in New York City
• Research the rational-comprehensive approach to urban planning
• Housing peculiarities in Scotland
• Discuss the importance of urban design in 2023
• Discuss the Concentric Model Zone by Ernest Burgess
• How can you become a successful urban planner?
• The importance of landscape in modern urbanism
• An in-depth look at housing affordability in the UK
• Planning land use in large cities in North America
• What is the role of an urban planner?
• Transport problems in London
• Discuss the Three Magnets theory by Ebenezer Howard

Architecture Thesis Topics

In case you’ve ran out of ideas for a topic, we have some of the best architecture thesis topics on the Internet. Check out these original ideas:

• Talk about the latest trends in environmental tech
• Discuss urban intensification challenges
• Design a brand new shopping mall in your area
• An efficient plan of the London transportation system
• Latest trends in theatre architecture
• Talk about lighting technology in Egyptian pyramids
• Common problems when designing a skyscraper
• Latest advancements in virtual planning

Complex Architectural Topics for Research

We know some students want to try something a bit more difficult to impress their professor. Here are some pretty complex architectural topics for research:

• Compare urban housing with rural housing in the UK
• The use of concrete in 2023
• Modern building technologies
• The latest building materials
• Talk about resource use maximization
• Discuss the impact of environmental technology on architecture
• Talk about the peculiarities of Islamic architecture
• Discuss planning a new school in a rural area

Great Architecture Thesis Ideas

If you are preparing to start working on your thesis, you will be thrilled to learn that we have a list of great architecture thesis ideas for you:

• Talk about the theories behind resilient designs
• Solving traffic congestions in New York City
• Building materials of the future
• Talk about sustainable rural development
• What are the principles of lightweight architecture?
• Materials used in ancient architecture
• The importance of using domes in your designs
• How can you make architecture an art?

Interesting Topics Related to Architecture

This is where our writers and editors selected the most interesting ideas. Check out our most interesting topics related to architecture:

• Talk about the rehabilitation of an ancient structure
• The design of Egyptian temples
• What do you think architecture will look like in 100 years?
• Indoor air quality and architecture
• Historic French architecture peculiarities
• How can you maximize usable space in your designs?
• Talk about constructing in extreme weather conditions
• How important are arches in 2023?

Interior Design Topics

If you want your research paper to be about something in interior design, our experts have compiled a list of unique interior design topics for you:

• Is interior design a dying industry?
• Talk about how people perceive colors
• The latest decorating styles in the UK
• The best color combinations in 2023
• Latest trends in interior design
• Differences in interior design in 3 different countries
• Talk about the rise of statement ceilings
• Curves instead of straight lines in 2023

Good Topics for High School Students

Our list wouldn’t be complete without a section of good topics for high school students. Check out these ideas and take your pick:

• Discuss why arches are important
• Is interior design a part of architecture?
• How do domes influence modern designs?
• Design a simple living space
• Design a new stadium in your area
• What is lightweight architecture?
• Talk about Roman concrete

Awesome Ideas for College

Are you a college student looking for top notch topics for his next architecture research paper? Check out these great awesome ideas for college:

• What is the most important building material today?
• Discuss the creation of 3D architectural designs
• Discuss about weather effects on buildings
• Common problems designing a hospital
• How did Covid-19 influence architecture?
• Talk about the use of technology in architecture
• The importance of virtual planning

Thesis Topics Related to Cultural Facilities

If you want to write your next paper on something related to culture, we have some of the best thesis topics related to cultural facilities:

• Design a new library in your city
• How important is the design of a cultural facility?
• Designing multidisciplinary spaces in 2023
• The concept of resonating with people
• The importance of integrating nature into your designs
• Making effective use of land in your designs
• Designing a worship center worthy of an award

Controversial Architecture Topics

Of course, we encourage every student to write about controversial topics. In fact, we have some very interesting controversial architecture topics right here:

• The design and building of the Sagrada Familia
• The lack of a national building code in Nigeria
• Discuss the problems involved with collaborative processes
• Trust issues in the modern world of architecture
• An in-depth look at the Scottish Parliament Building
• Is a good architect a good designer?
• Are building codes in the US flawed?

Need Some Excellent Writing Help?

Our trustworthy academic writers are ready to help high school, college and university students with their architecture essays and research papers right now. Getting high quality writing help online is now easier than ever. Our professionals and PhD-holding writers have been creating custom academic content that professors love for over 10 years, so we know what we’re doing.

Does this mean you can write my paper fast and cheap? Yes, we can! Writing a thesis architecture professors appreciate can be really difficult, we know. However, we want to assure you that we will help every student do a great job and get a top grade on his next essay or research paper. Get in touch with us today and get a nice discount on your first order!

Suggestions or feedback?

MIT News | Massachusetts Institute of Technology

• Machine learning
• Social justice
• Black holes
• Classes and programs

Departments

• Aeronautics and Astronautics
• Brain and Cognitive Sciences
• Architecture
• Political Science
• Mechanical Engineering

Centers, Labs, & Programs

• Abdul Latif Jameel Poverty Action Lab (J-PAL)
• Picower Institute for Learning and Memory
• Lincoln Laboratory
• School of Architecture + Planning
• School of Engineering
• School of Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences
• Sloan School of Management
• School of Science
• MIT Schwarzman College of Computing

New AI method captures uncertainty in medical images

Press contact :, media download.

*Terms of Use:

Images for download on the MIT News office website are made available to non-commercial entities, press and the general public under a Creative Commons Attribution Non-Commercial No Derivatives license . You may not alter the images provided, other than to crop them to size. A credit line must be used when reproducing images; if one is not provided below, credit the images to "MIT."

Previous image Next image

In biomedicine, segmentation involves annotating pixels from an important structure in a medical image, like an organ or cell. Artificial intelligence models can help clinicians by highlighting pixels that may show signs of a certain disease or anomaly.

However, these models typically only provide one answer, while the problem of medical image segmentation is often far from black and white. Five expert human annotators might provide five different segmentations, perhaps disagreeing on the existence or extent of the borders of a nodule in a lung CT image.

“Having options can help in decision-making. Even just seeing that there is uncertainty in a medical image can influence someone’s decisions, so it is important to take this uncertainty into account,” says Marianne Rakic, an MIT computer science PhD candidate.

Rakic is lead author of a paper with others at MIT, the Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, and Massachusetts General Hospital that introduces a new AI tool that can capture the uncertainty in a medical image.

Known as Tyche (named for the Greek divinity of chance), the system provides multiple plausible segmentations that each highlight slightly different areas of a medical image. A user can specify how many options Tyche outputs and select the most appropriate one for their purpose.

Importantly, Tyche can tackle new segmentation tasks without needing to be retrained. Training is a data-intensive process that involves showing a model many examples and requires extensive machine-learning experience.

Because it doesn’t need retraining, Tyche could be easier for clinicians and biomedical researchers to use than some other methods. It could be applied “out of the box” for a variety of tasks, from identifying lesions in a lung X-ray to pinpointing anomalies in a brain MRI.

Ultimately, this system could improve diagnoses or aid in biomedical research by calling attention to potentially crucial information that other AI tools might miss.

“Ambiguity has been understudied. If your model completely misses a nodule that three experts say is there and two experts say is not, that is probably something you should pay attention to,” adds senior author Adrian Dalca, an assistant professor at Harvard Medical School and MGH, and a research scientist in the MIT Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory (CSAIL).

Their co-authors include Hallee Wong, a graduate student in electrical engineering and computer science; Jose Javier Gonzalez Ortiz PhD ’23; Beth Cimini, associate director for bioimage analysis at the Broad Institute; and John Guttag, the Dugald C. Jackson Professor of Computer Science and Electrical Engineering. Rakic will present Tyche at the IEEE Conference on Computer Vision and Pattern Recognition, where Tyche has been selected as a highlight.

Addressing ambiguity

AI systems for medical image segmentation typically use neural networks . Loosely based on the human brain, neural networks are machine-learning models comprising many interconnected layers of nodes, or neurons, that process data.

After speaking with collaborators at the Broad Institute and MGH who use these systems, the researchers realized two major issues limit their effectiveness. The models cannot capture uncertainty and they must be retrained for even a slightly different segmentation task.

Some methods try to overcome one pitfall, but tackling both problems with a single solution has proven especially tricky, Rakic says. 

“If you want to take ambiguity into account, you often have to use an extremely complicated model. With the method we propose, our goal is to make it easy to use with a relatively small model so that it can make predictions quickly,” she says.

The researchers built Tyche by modifying a straightforward neural network architecture.

A user first feeds Tyche a few examples that show the segmentation task. For instance, examples could include several images of lesions in a heart MRI that have been segmented by different human experts so the model can learn the task and see that there is ambiguity.

The researchers found that just 16 example images, called a “context set,” is enough for the model to make good predictions, but there is no limit to the number of examples one can use. The context set enables Tyche to solve new tasks without retraining.

For Tyche to capture uncertainty, the researchers modified the neural network so it outputs multiple predictions based on one medical image input and the context set. They adjusted the network’s layers so that, as data move from layer to layer, the candidate segmentations produced at each step can “talk” to each other and the examples in the context set.

In this way, the model can ensure that candidate segmentations are all a bit different, but still solve the task.

“It is like rolling dice. If your model can roll a two, three, or four, but doesn’t know you have a two and a four already, then either one might appear again,” she says.

They also modified the training process so it is rewarded by maximizing the quality of its best prediction.

If the user asked for five predictions, at the end they can see all five medical image segmentations Tyche produced, even though one might be better than the others.

The researchers also developed a version of Tyche that can be used with an existing, pretrained model for medical image segmentation. In this case, Tyche enables the model to output multiple candidates by making slight transformations to images.

Better, faster predictions

When the researchers tested Tyche with datasets of annotated medical images, they found that its predictions captured the diversity of human annotators, and that its best predictions were better than any from the baseline models. Tyche also performed faster than most models.

“Outputting multiple candidates and ensuring they are different from one another really gives you an edge,” Rakic says.

The researchers also saw that Tyche could outperform more complex models that have been trained using a large, specialized dataset.

For future work, they plan to try using a more flexible context set, perhaps including text or multiple types of images. In addition, they want to explore methods that could improve Tyche’s worst predictions and enhance the system so it can recommend the best segmentation candidates.

This research is funded, in part, by the National Institutes of Health, the Eric and Wendy Schmidt Center at the Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, and Quanta Computer.

Share this news article on:

Related links.

• Marianne Rakic
• Adrian Dalca
• John Guttag
• Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory
• Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science
• Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard

Related Topics

• Computer science and technology
• Artificial intelligence
• Health care
• Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory (CSAIL)
• Electrical Engineering & Computer Science (eecs)
• Broad Institute
• National Institutes of Health (NIH)

Related Articles

Producing better guides for medical-image analysis

Using machine learning to estimate risk of cardiovascular death

Automating artificial intelligence for medical decision-making

From one brain scan, more information for medical artificial intelligence

Previous item Next item

More MIT News

Featured video: Moooving the needle on methane

Read full story →

The many-body dynamics of cold atoms and cross-country running

Heather Paxson named associate dean for faculty of the School of Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences

Preparing MIT’s campus for cardiac emergencies

Researching extreme environments

To build a better AI helper, start by modeling the irrational behavior of humans

• More news on MIT News homepage →

Massachusetts Institute of Technology 77 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA, USA

• Map (opens in new window)
• Events (opens in new window)
• People (opens in new window)
• Careers (opens in new window)
• Accessibility
• Social Media Hub
• MIT on Facebook
• MIT on YouTube
• MIT on Instagram