Art as a reflection of the society

The art of Ancient Egypt was a reflection of the society=s religious beliefs. The most striking aspect of Egyptian religious thought is its obsession with immortality and the possibilities of life after death. They worshiped a host of deities, subdeities, and nature spirits. These gods were responsible for all aspects of existence, inspired mythology and ritual that affected the daily life of every Egyptian. They believed that an essential part of every human personality was its life force, or spirit called ka. One of the ways to worship these deities was to give them visible form in works of art- a principal function of Egyptian artists. In addition to producing images of deities, artists were required to provide temples, develop funerary rites and structures where they can be honored. Thus, the same central authority that controlled religion affected the development of the arts.
The Pyramid of Djoser, Saqqara built on 2681-2662 B.C. by the architect Imhotep is an example. He is the first pyramid architect in history known by name and founder of Egyptian culture. Saqqara has the distinction of being the site of the first and oldest monumental stone structure built in the world. It remains today as one of the most brillia

During this time, Pilgrimages became very popular as travel became safe. The Benedictine pilgrimage of Saint Sernin in Toulouse, France (1080-1120) was designed to accommodate the large number of pilgrims as they made their way to the famous shrine of Santiago de Compostela. A generous space was articulated so that a large number of persons besides the monastic community could move freely through the building. This building testify to the power of religious faith and local pride.

The Romans then adapted the Greek architectural orders to their own tastes and uses. They created the Composite order by combining the Greek Ionic capital with other forms of Greek Corinthian order. One can see these characteristics in the monumental building, the Pantheon built in 118-125 A.D.

Just like the Ancient Egyptians, Greeks believed in many deities, practised animal sacrifice, and invoked the gods far more frequently than do most moderns practicess. In intemperate weather or high seas, before battle or after morally doubtful behavior, Greeks grew fearful of the gods. After successfully surviving any of these, they thankfully left gifts or paid for sacrifices at the appropriate temple or shrine. Greek men honored the patron gods of their poleis, their families, or their professions. Greek women invoked favorite gods and goddesses in rituals and celebrations at annual festivals.