Remnants of the British Empire
This course has largely concentrated around topics related to the history of the British life and its imperialism. The 18th and 19th centuries were times of immense power for this country. They continued to spread their influence for years as the empire expanded. Eventually, the British reached Greece. Located in Greece, there was a collection of ancient sculptures located at the Parthenon. The weaker country of Greece did not stand a chance when Britain decided that they wanted to possess these religious, valuable artifacts. Around the year 1801, Lord Thomas Elgin, began to negotiate with the Turkish Ottomans in control of these small European islands. He argued that it was necessary for these beautiful artifacts be preserved safely. In his mind, it would only make since that one of the most powerful countries in the world were perfect for this job. He successfully extracted half the collection and brought it safely back to England. Today, they are still housed in the British Museum in London. These events may have taken place centuries ago, but they are more relevant than ever. For years, Greece has been attempting to return these artifacts to their original home. There have been many arguments to support both sides. This debate has been put in the spotlight since the Brexit vote in the United Kingdom.
The unit that encompassed this topic began by learning about the history of British imperialism. By 1815, the United Kingdom had a hold on territories in Canada, India, Australia, and Africa. They had reached a status of naval supremacy. At the time, Turkish Ottomans had control over Greece. When Lord Elgin acquired these artifacts, he did so with the permission of the Turks. This creates the question whether the collection was theirs to give away. The argument to contradict this belief is that the Parthenon was in a pathetic condition. It was essentially falling apart, so the English felt they were the only suitable ones to save the art pieces. Upon his return, Elgin sold the marbles to the government; thus, landing them a permanent residency in the British Museum. The museum is essentially a collection of artifacts from across the world. A fascination with museums soon followed the establishment of this valuable center. Some citizens believe that this display has only encouraged cultural appreciation. In a way, it allows people to get to know Greek culture without ever having to actually travel to Greece. Others feel that it is a gross reminder of the horrors of imperialism. It also suggests that this power-hungry empire is still alive and well.
The Elgin Marbles have had a massive influence on history and life. John Keats, a famous poet during this time, wrote “On Seeing the Elgin Marbles.” It detailed how seeing these on display in the British Museum affected him. When analyzing this poem, it becomes clear that a multitude of feelings have been stirred within him. Seeing their condition, he became aware that nothing is immune to aging. The marbles are a symbol that Greek grandeur that is immortal, yet mortal at the same time. The mortality is clear based on their state of slow, gradual decay. There is a very notable line: “Like a sick eagle looking at the sky.” The symbol of an eagle is supposed to express freedom and strength, however, in this case it is unable to. These artifacts were a symbol of Greek culture that no longer represent that individuality and spirituality that they once did, likely due to imperialism. The country’s potential has been permanently hindered.
These stones were taken without true Greek consent, rather the consent of an empire that ruthlessly took hold of the small country. Imperialism at its core is rather disturbing. It involves large nations dominating less powerful nations simply because they can. Often the leaders are power-hungry and will not stop for anything. Many lives have been destroyed and lost due to imperialism. Numerous cultures have been diluted and lost their individuality. I personally believe that London housing these artifacts is a painful reminder of the horrors that citizens’ ancestors went through. It is a prime example of their cultural exploitation. The English are benefiting by having one of the most renowned exhibits in the world, yet most people do not even understand what the sculptures truly represent. People do not seem to realize, or care, that these actually held great religious and cultural significance to Ancient Greece. This may appear to be a mostly moral argument, but it is not. With the passage of Brexit, Britain will be leaving the European Union. That means they will no longer have their close tie to Greece. Truly, they will be losing what little rights they have to the stones. There will soon be massive restrictions placed regarding the travel from Athens to London once they leave the EU. This will make it even more difficult for citizens of Greece to admire the marbles created by their ancestors as a cultural expression.
I entered this course knowing very little about the Elgin Marbles. After reading these informational articles, nothing truly resonated with me. It was not until I read Keats’ poem that I began to develop a passion regarding this topic. This only strengthened after visiting the exhibit. I also did not realize immediately how relevant this issue is. The UK claims to have “decolonized” and moved past imperialism. If that is the case, why are they clutching so strongly to the hold they have on Greece?
Works Cited
Beard, Mary. “History - Ancient History in Depth: Lord Elgin - Saviour or Vandal?” BBC, BBC, 17 Feb. 2011, www.bbc.co.uk/history/ancient/greeks/parthenon_debate_01.shtml.
Keats, John. “On Seeing the Elgin Marbles by John Keats.” Poetry Foundation, Poetry Foundation, 2006, www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/52305/on-seeing-the-elgin-marbles.
Porter, Professor Andrew. “History - British History in Depth: Britain's Empire in 1815.” BBC, BBC, 17 Feb. 2011, www.bbc.co.uk/history/british/empire_seapower/britain_empire_01.shtml.
Selwood, Dominic. “How Brexit Has Revived Controversy over the Elgin Marbles in Britain.” The Independent, Independent Digital News and Media, 14 Sept. 2018, www.independent.co.uk/news/long_reads/elgin-marbles-parthenon-sculptures-ancient-greece-british-museum-brexit-a8520406.html.
