Altars to Greek Goddesses
Grade Levels: 6 - 8
We must remember that Greek temples were built as shrines for the all-important gods and goddesses of the ancient world. Their influence was awesome; their myths and legends immortal.Objectives
- Students will construct altars to Greek goddesses, or they will make up their own.
Materials
- White paper
- Colored markers or crayons
- Scissors
- White glue
- Foam board or cardboard
- Tape suitable for heavier mounting (such as double-sided foam tape)
- Masking tape
Procedures
- Obtain foam board from the local art supply store if possible-it's great for construction projects.
- To make the pediment in which the goddesses will dwell, you may want to precut parts beforehand. A triangular shape with three strips to be attached will to it. An instant architectural detail!
- To further familiarize students with Greek mythological deities, you might make reference materials available for their use, such as books and illustrations. (Use the Internet for instant access to reference materials.) You can list the names of the gods and goddesses and their powers on the chalkboard or on a chart before beginning the lesson.
- Discuss the role of deities in Greek society. What would such gods and goddesses be like if they were with us today? What would they rule? Invent some gods and goddesses!
- Talk about the basics of Greek temples, particularly pediments, and the influence of the gods on their construction.
- Distribute paper and drawing materials. Students might want to try practice sketches before deciding on the goddess they will depict.
- Color and decorate the figures.
- Consider the compatibility of size to pediment dimensions.
- Cut out.
- Attach a group of goddesses, frieze-style, on the triangle with rolled masking tape. Glue foam board strips to assemble pediment.
- Secure pediment on wall with heavy-duty tape. Place over a door jamb for greatest architectural effect. Ask students to explain their invented goddesses and their strengths.
- Pediment may remain as a fixture indefinitely. The gods and goddesses may be rotated-fame can be fleeting!
Excerpt from Art Smart!.
