Ancient Greece

Children's Literature - Barbara L. Talcroft

The series, "Arts and Crafts of the Ancient World," concentrates on introducing students to characteristic artworks of various ancient peoples, including Egyptians, Romans, Aztecs, Mayas, and Native Americans. In this book dedicated to the arts of ancient Greece, readers will learn about sculpture (both archaic and classical), metalwork, murals, black and red pottery, temple reliefs, theatrical masks, and literature written on parchment and papyrus. That's a tall order for a slim book, but the well-chosen color photographs help clarify the text and will surely lead young art-lovers to further research. Especially effective are pictures of a spectacular gold Mycenaean death mask, a stunning black pottery wine vessel supported by a winged sphinx, and a relief of the playwright Menander contemplating huge, open-mouthed masks. Techniques and history of each craft are described and then accompanied by a project for readers to undertake themselves. Though some experienced students will be able to proceed alone, most will need guidance from parents or teachers and help with assembling listed materials. The suggested activities don't, of course, follow ancient methods as practiced by Greek artists (for example, a mask is made from papier mache and painted, while Greek ones were fashioned of leather, linen, or wood), but they will enrich study by providing a deeper look at the originals and opportunities for students to use their artifacts in related activities about ancient Greece, such as plays, models, music, and exhibits. Included are clear, illustrated instructions for each project and a glossary of terms.