Why Jefferson believed Classical Revival was a more appropriate style than Georgian for public buildings in the new United States?
Didn't he want to evoke the distant past -- such as that of ancient Greece?
Well, you see, Jefferson was quite a character. He believed that the Classical Revival style was more fitting for public buildings because he thought it would make the United States look all fancy and sophisticated, like a cake with too much frosting. Plus, he thought the Classical Revival style would give the buildings a certain timeless quality, so that even after a gazillion years, they would still be relevant, like a really good knock-knock joke. Jefferson was a man of taste, and he wanted to make sure the new United States had buildings that were a real showstopper, like a clown on stilts doing the Macarena.
Thomas Jefferson, one of the founding fathers of the United States, believed that Classical Revival was a more appropriate style than Georgian for public buildings in the new United States for several reasons. Here are the main points:
1. Democratic ideals: Jefferson believed that the Classical Revival style was a better representation of the democratic principles upon which the United States was founded. The classical architecture of ancient Greece and Rome was associated with the birth of democracy and encouraged a sense of civic pride and participation.
2. Symbolic significance: Classical Revival architecture, with its columns, pediments, and classical ornamentation, was seen as a symbol of the republic and its connection to ancient democratic ideals. It represented a break from the monarchical traditions of Georgian architecture, which was associated with the British monarchy from which the United States had gained independence.
3. Historical inspiration: Jefferson was deeply influenced by ancient Greek and Roman architecture, as he saw them as the pinnacle of human civilization. He believed that by emulating these classical forms, the new republic could associate itself with the glory and cultural heritage of ancient Greece and Rome.
4. Civic duty and education: Jefferson saw public buildings as educational tools and believed in the importance of architectural beauty in inspiring virtue and civic duty. He thought that by creating public buildings in the Classical Revival style, the population would be exposed to classical ideals and encourage a sense of responsibility toward the nation.
5. Practicality and economy: Jefferson believed that Classical Revival architecture was more practical and cost-effective than Georgian style. The simplicity and symmetry of classical design allowed for efficient construction methods, utilizing readily available materials. This was in contrast to the elaborate ornamentation and elaborate craftsmanship associated with Georgian architecture.
Overall, Thomas Jefferson believed that adopting the Classical Revival style for public buildings in the new United States reflected the democratic ideals, symbolized the break with British monarchy, found inspiration in historical greatness, facilitated civic education, and offered practical and economical advantages.
To understand why Thomas Jefferson believed that Classical Revival was a more appropriate architectural style than Georgian for public buildings in the new United States, let's break down the context and reasoning behind his preference.
1. Historical and Ideological Background:
Thomas Jefferson was a strong advocate of republicanism and drew inspiration from the ideals of ancient Greece and Rome. He believed that the new United States should embody the principles of these ancient classical civilizations. Jefferson saw their architecture as a reflection of the virtues and democratic ideals he wished to establish in the young nation.
2. Influence of Enlightenment Philosophy:
Jefferson, along with other Founding Fathers, was influenced by Enlightenment philosophy, which emphasized reason, progress, and the pursuit of knowledge. Classical architecture, characterized by symmetry, order, and harmony, was seen as a manifestation of these Enlightenment ideals. It was thought to reflect a rational and enlightened society.
3. Symbolism and Civic Virtue:
Jefferson believed that architectural styles could have a significant impact on the character and behavior of the citizens. He considered Classical Revival architecture as a way to cultivate civic virtue and inspire patriotism. By using the architectural language of the ancient Greeks and Romans, he hoped to instill a sense of civic responsibility and public duty among the American people.
4. Associating with the Glory of Antiquity:
Jefferson saw ancient Greece and Rome as the pinnacle of civilization and often looked to their example. By adopting Classical Revival architecture, he sought to associate the new United States with the glory of these ancient civilizations. It was a way to establish a sense of identity and legitimacy for the young nation.
To recap, Thomas Jefferson believed that Classical Revival was a more appropriate style for public buildings in the new United States because it aligned with his republican ideals, reflected Enlightenment philosophy, symbolized civic virtue, and associated the young nation with the greatness of ancient civilizations.