Throughout history, architecture and storytelling have played vital roles in shaping cultures, from Native American traditions to grand European and Roman structures. Native Americans, deeply connected to animism, believed in the spiritual essence of all things, a contrast to Protestant and Catholic religions, though similarities exist in reverence for sacred spaces. Their storytellers preserved history orally, much like the ancient Greek amphitheater, which could hold 14,000 spectators and emphasized the separation of actors and audience. Greek theatre, performed in the theatron, featured stock characters, a chorus, and early Thespians. Plays, often tragedies, were recognized with awards, and no women were allowed to perform. The Roman Circus Maximus, capable of seating 150,000 spectators, and the Roman Colosseum, holding 50,000-80,000 spectators, both enforced segregation of the audience. These arenas showcased brutal spectacles, from gladiators—often slaves, criminals, and prisoners of war—to the killing of exotic animals. The Colosseum was even flooded for naumachia, reenacting naval battles. Roman ingenuity also extended to impressive architectural accomplishments, such as the Pantheon, with its vast dome, and the Hagia Sophia, which utilized squinches and pendentives for support and was adorned with stunning mosaics. Medieval Europe saw the rise of the Gothic cathedral, known for soaring spires, intricate stained glass, and sacred relics. These cathedrals embodied the grandeur of faith, much like the amphitheaters and colosseums of the past celebrated entertainment, storytelling, and power. Across different civilizations, architecture and performance reflected societal values, whether through Native American teepees, Greek dramas, Roman spectacles, or medieval cathedrals.
I thought this lesson was fun to learn. I actually got to visit the Colosseum in October 2023. The pictures simply don't do it justice. It is such a marvel to see in person. I really loved learning about all of the different aspects that go into creating these buildings. The Colosseum has such an interesting history. It is one period of time that I love to deep dive. Taking the time to watch how the Romans flooded the Colosseum was cool. I also loved learning about Hypogeum. I never knew about that, so I thought it was interesting.
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