Change within Western Society from Roman Times to the Time o
Change within Western Society from Roman Times to the Time oArtists, like writers and social activists, are affected by their surroundings. Therefore, the work that they produce is also extremely affected by the existing society. Political, moral, economical, and religious views of a period are frequently themes in artwork, whether they are symbolic or obvious. The styling and technique that is used depicts and is a result of the ongoing era. When thematic issues and styles undergo drastic transformations, it can be understood that it is a result from the changing times and situations.
The artistic changes in time the Western Society from Roman times to the time of Carolingian Empire are no exception. These creative differences that occurred during such times make it effortless to notice and understand the changes that were taking place. As a result, the alterations in society can be understood from the Roman Empire to the time of Charlemagne, just by observing some of the artwork from these times
The Roman Empire was a definite milestone for the advancement of knowledge and civilization.
The historian Edward Gibbon in his classic book The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire declared that Rome had at last experienced a "period the history of the world during which the condition of the human race was most happy and prosperous." At this time, he continues, "the empire of Rome comprehended the fairest part of the earth and the most civilized portion of mankind." This favorable state of affairs he attributed to the Romans' genius for law and order, their cultivation of tolerance and justice, and their capacity for wise government (Fleming, 95-96).
Such feelings of accomplishment and satisfaction that were present during this time were so evident in many artworks. The art of this era was majestic, romanticized, and idealistic. The Romans wanted to celebrate the magnificent Empire by paying homage to their important leaders and events.
A prime example of such characteristics is Augustus of Prima Porta. This marble structure was done in 20 BC, shortly after the Roman Empire was founded. Augustus Caesar "turned his energies to restoring civilian morale and rebuilding the city of Rome. By fostering a literature in their own Latin tongue, he reawakened the pride of his people in their historical past and present (Fleming, 93)." Since the Romans were so proud of these accomplishments, they constructed this sculpture to appear valiant and noble. His carriage shows unmistakable confidence, and his arm is raised as though he was "addressing his troops (Fleming, 93)." The facial features are realistic and of classical style. His well-defined muscles are visible even through armor, and create a feeling of authority. The breastplate is intricately carved with images "recounting the outstanding achievements of his reign together with pictures of gods and goddesses who conferred favors upon him (Fleming, 93)." Every aspect of...
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