“Sculpting Legends” explores how societies worldwide immortalize historical and legendary figures through commemorative sculpture and monuments. It delves into the artistic and historical choices that shape these tributes and their impact on collective memory. These sculptures, far from being neutral, actively mold our understanding of history, embodying cultural narratives and promoting specific ideologies.
The book examines sculptures dedicated to historical figures, such as Greek heroes and Roman emperors, alongside those depicting mythological figures, revealing how artistic conventions and evolving social values influence their portrayals. Consider how a monument's material choice, like bronze or marble, impacts its longevity and symbolic meaning, reflecting the values a society wishes to preserve.
It begins by introducing the theoretical framework of collective memory and progresses through case studies, concluding with contemporary debates around contested monuments. This unique approach bridges history and art, revealing how these works are not just aesthetic objects but powerful historical documents. By analyzing the design, materials, and placement of monuments, the book provides a deeper understanding of the values and power dynamics of commissioning societies. It highlights how our interpretation and preservation of these cultural artifacts remain crucial for understanding constructed narratives.
