Classical Greece and the Birth of Western Art

by Andrew Stewart

What was the “Classical Revolution” in Greek art? What were its contexts, aims, achievements, and impact? This book introduces students to these questions and offers some answers to them. Andrew Stewart examines Greek architecture, painting, and sculpture of the fifth and fourth centuries BC in relation to the great political, social, cultural, and intellectual issues of the period. Intended for use in courses in classical civilization as well as Greek art and archaeology, his book draws on Greek lyric poetry, tragedy, comedy, historiography, oratory, and philosophy in order to illuminate the art of the period.

Genres: Art History, History, Art

376 pages, Paperback

First published October 20, 2008

Reviews

[Nina Misson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very inclusive, the book offers a wide insight into Classical Greek culture, warfare and politics. I wish there to be more stress on the actual (visual) art monuments and not so much on the historical and religious context. All in all the book is well written, albeit some inconsistencies did stick out (eg. on p. 286 he uses 'Lysippus of Sicyon' but on p. 287 it's 'Lysippos of Sikyon' etc.). Illustrations are mainly in colour, which is a plus and a handy greek dictionary is also included. The author was trying too hard to be amusing in my opinion, when he was being sarcasting in certain remarks, which is something I don't like. I think it shows too much of author's personal preference to the subject, but it does say in the preface the book is intended for students, so this is where the desire to be approachable came from, I suppose. 4.5/5

[Elise Hamrick · Rating 4 out of 5]

Quirky narrations😜

[Midori · Rating 4 out of 5]

The book's flawed writing style make its ideas rather poweless.