Greek Revival architecture
From Free net encyclopedia
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Greek Revival was a style of Neoclassical architecture which became fashionable in Europe in the 18th century, and in the United Kingdom and United States in the early 19th century. It rebelled against the fussy Palladian style (after Andrea Palladio), which was based upon classical Italian styles and instead relied for its beauty on the form and proportions of ancient Greek temples.
It is considered the first National style of the United States. In the late 18th century there was a rise in the interest in classical architecture in both Europe and the United States. With public buildings based on the Roman style of architecture, by the 1820's, America shifted more towards the Greek style. This was caused by many factors: The War of 1812 caused Americans to feel contempt towards anything British, including architecture. The Roman, or Federal style, was no longer favored. Greece was now looked at the true home of Democracy, and the Mother of Rome. Also, Greece had begun her war of independence against the Ottoman Empire in 1821, invoking much sympathy from the newly independent United States. The Greek Revival style would eventually be known as the National style.
Greek revival architects
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- Asher Benjamin
- Alexander Jackson Davis
- Benjamin Latrobe
- Alexander Parris
- Gideon Shryock
- William Strickland
- Ithiel Town
- Thomas U. Walter