Question

1. Why did Greek architects begin to make the

move from ephemeral materials (wood, mud
brick, and thatch) to permanent materials
(namely, stone)?

Answer 1

Greek architects began using stone instead of ephemeral materials like wood for its durability, fire resistance, and strength.

Step-by-step explanation:

Greek architects began to transition from ephemeral materials such as wood, mud brick, and thatch to permanent materials like stone for several reasons:

1. Durability: Stone is a more durable material than wood, mud brick, and thatch. It is resistant to decay and weathering, allowing buildings to last for longer periods of time.
2. Fire resistance: Stone is much less prone to catching fire compared to wood, making it a safer choice for construction.
3. Strength: Stone provides greater structural strength, allowing buildings to be taller and more elaborate.

An example of this transition can be seen in Greek temples, which were initially constructed with wooden columns but later replaced with stone columns to enhance their longevity and grandeur.

Answer 2

The Greeks built the temples in honor of divinities, first, they were made from wood and mud brick, those materials were ephemeral because they did not survive long. The Greeks maintained the forms of the temples but changed the materials from wood to permanent materials such as stone.

The Greeks changed the materials because from the 6th century BCE forward the City-States started to invest more resources into temple building and spent more on better materials. For example, Athens spent enormous resources to construct the Acropolis, this also aimed to make people more confident that the temples built to honor their gods surpassed anything that any other states could offer, so they always would be blessed.