Greek Revival Architecture and Design in the U.S.

INTRODUCTION

Neoclassic design was brought to the United States in part by Thomas Jefferson, the third President of the United States. His home, Monticello, is an excellent example of the Neoclassic style. Architectural historian Fiske Kimball called Jefferson the father of our national architecture. If you are unfamiliar with Jefferson and Monticello, please spend a few minutes reading this page:

https://www.americanheritage.com/node/132675

Perhaps you would like to view this site as well:

https://home.monticello.org/

As Secretary of State, Jefferson was responsible for the design of the Federal City in Washington, D.C. Working with Major Pierre Charles L’Enfant, Jefferson helped to lay out the city and had a voice in selecting the plans of many of the first government buildings in America. Jefferson used this opportunity to “improve the taste of his countrymen” by “presenting them models for their study and imitation.” When he was selected to plan the Virginia State Capitol, for instance, he wrote that it was “a favorable opportunity of introducing into the state an example of architecture in the classic style of antiquity.”

Retrieved from: https://www.monticello.org/site/jefferson/architecture-my-delight

In a similar fashion, Late Neoclassic design, and particularly that of Greek Revival, is seen in the design of the U.S. Capitol and even the White House.

In this essay, you are to explain the significance of Greek Revival design to the citizens of the Unites States during that era. Make sure to address as a minimum the political, social, and cultural underpinnings that are reflected in and by this style. This is a good place to begin your research: https://www.aoc.gov/history-us-capitol-building