Polemic in Greek Art and Architecture

Abstract

ABSTRACT: This article argues for the existence of an artistic and architectural polemical discourse amongst the dedicatory monuments erected within the sanctuary of Delphi. With particular reference to monuments erected relating to the Persian wars of the fifth century bce, this article argues that the polemical discourse created between them focused not only on offering divergent views on the respective roles each dedicator played in the different battles, but also, more broadly and importantly, on offering conflicting understandings of how this conflict should be remembered as an event in Greek history, culture and identity.