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Hellenistic Art Research Paper

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Alexander the Great conquered all the known world in 336 B.C. He united all of Greece and built an empire, but he dies 13 years later. The period from 323 B.C. to 31 B.C. is known as the Hellenistic period. The word Hellenistic comes from the word hellenize which means to spread Greek influence. After Alexander’s death, his empire divided into four kingdoms: Syria (the kingdom of the Seleucids), Egypt, Pergamum, and Macedonia. Farther east in Syria, the Hellenistic rulers of the new kingdoms Encouraged Greek art and literature as one means of holding foreign influences under control. Libraries were built at Pergamum and the Syrian capital of Antioch. Greek philosophers were encouraged to visit learning centers and lecture there. This assisted with the spread of Greek influence farther east. The first Buddhist monumental sculpture called Gandharan was built using Greek style and techniques. Artists of the Hellenistic period worked toward discovering new subjects and inventing new techniques. The light house at Alexandria, which was the tallest building at the time was built during the Hellenistic period. …show more content…

Classical art was, calm and restrained even in scenes of violence. Hellenistic art was emotional and expressive. Majority of the great works from the Classical period had been constructed for the state: however, in Hellenistic period artists worked for powerful rulers and wealthy businessman. They paid artists to create art for decoration and motivated them with money to outdo the achievements of adversaries. Architects from Classical period dedicated themselves to build temples and religious sanctuaries but in the Hellenistic period is famous for scientific and technical buildings such as Tower of the Winds at Athens and the Lighthouse at

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