Parthenon Project

(Her white shoes cannot be seen due to the curvature of the Parthenon)

When looking at the front of the Parthenon, it is possible to notice the slight horizontal curvature in the stylobate. There are many theories for why the architects chose to do this. According to Stokstad, “since long, straight horizontal lines seem to sag when seen from a distance, base and entablature curve slightly upward to correct this optical illusion.” Along with that compensation theory, Pollitt also provides the exaggeration theory, in that the curvature “was intended to amplify normal optical distortion so that the temple appeared to be more immense than it actually was.” The last theory, according to Pollitt, was the tension theory. The architects could have purposely curved it to create tension in the viewer’s mind, which would then “make the structure seem vibrant, alive, and continually interesting.