Perceptive as always, Mann not only examines the construction of
the Parthenon in this new entry in her Wonders of the World series,
she also discusses what decorating this glorious,
no-expenses-spared, holy temple with statues not of gods but of
mortals reveals about how Athenians regarded themselves. She
actually begins at the beginning, with the birth of Athena from
Zeus's forehead, then goes on to deliver a rousing account of the
victories at Marathon and Salamis (the booty from which largely
financed the grand construction), plus a glimpse of how the
Athenians' radical method of government actually worked. Capped by
an eye-filling, double gatefold cutaway, the clear illustrations
provide easy-to-see views of the early Acropolis and of the
Parthenon in various stages of construction. Though the author ends
abruptly with the catastrophic explosion of 1687, she once again
will leave readers buzzed about one of the great works of
architecture, and more deeply aware of the ways in which it
reflects its builders' beliefs and attitudes. (bibliography)
(Nonfiction. 10-12) (Kirkus Reviews)
"The story of an inspired building and an inspirational
civilization."
The Parthenon is more than a magnificent building. Every marble
statue, every graceful column, is an expression of a civilization
whose three great values still speak to us today: "Democracy." At a
time of godlike rulers, ordinary citizens voted to build the
Parthenon. "Humanism." The Parthenon's art honored Athens' water
carriers as well as its gods. "Balance." The Parthenon's aesthetic
brought lightness and grace to height and mass.
The Parthenon tells of the rise of Athens -- from the religion
that nurtured it, through the wars that tested it, to the democracy
that ennobled it -culminating in the construction of the great
temple on the Acropolis. The book not only captures the human
stories, but also vividly illustrates the technical details behind
the construction, from quarrying of the marbles to carving of the
exquisite frieze. To look at the Parthenon is to see Athens. To see
Athens, is to see ourselves.
"Wonders of the World" series
The winner of numerous awards, this series is renowned for
Elizabeth Mann's ability to convey adventure and excitement while
revealing technical information in engaging and easily understood
language. The illustrations are lavishly realistic and accurate in
detail but do not ignore the human element. Outstanding in the
genre, these books are sure to bring even the most indifferent
young reader into the worlds of history, geography, and
architecture.
""One of the ten best non-fiction series for young readers."" -
Booklist
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