The Theatre of Marcellus Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

The Theatre of Marcellus - Essay Example Today, there are a number of theories regarding what is architecture and they continue to change with time, material, usage of the structure and so forth. To help limit our discussion, Vitruvius provides us with three basic elements of design that must be considered when attempting to understand architecture. These include utility, flexibility and beauty. â€Å"By utility, Vitruvius means the functional arrangement of rooms and spaces so that there is no hindrance to use and so that a building is perfectly adjusted to its site. Firmness referred to foundations that were solid and to building materials being used wisely to do their required work. Beauty meant that ‘the appearance of the work is pleasing and in good taste, and [that] its members are in due proportion according to correct principles of symmetry† (Roth 11). These three principles will be taken into account in an examination of the architecture of the ancient Theatre of Marcellus as it existed within its cont emporary society and as it has influenced architecture into the future. Social life in ancient Rome was full of spectacle including triumphal processions, aristocratic funerals, public banquets, gladiatorial contests, wild beast shows, athletic competitions and chariot races. â€Å"As a whole, this pervasive culture of spectacle served both as a vehicle for self-advertisement by the sociopolitical elite and as a means of reinforcing the shared values and institutions of the entire community† (Klar, 2006). One form of entertainment that had long-term impact upon the citizens of the city was the theatre. â€Å"According to the ancient historian Livy, the earliest theatrical activity at Rome took the form of dances with musical accompaniment, introduced to the city by the Etruscans in 364 BC† (Klar, 2006). Full length plays were introduced by 240 BC through the comedies and tragedies of