Classic Architecture in America

After learning about the classic architecture in class yesterday, I was curious to know what the architecture is on the White House and Lincoln Memorial. I found it interesting how classic architecture was used on both of the buildings.

The White House



A close up look at the columns and capital show a ionic style of architecture. The architrave is clear. The ionic style comes from the Greeks and is viewed as graceful. I think this is fitting for the White House because of its symbol for America. However, as can seen, there are no flutes in the shafts of the columns. The presence of flutes is viewed as feminine. To keep the flutes out still creates a graceful, majestic, and strong feel.

The Lincoln Memorial



This building, however have different architecture than the White House. Again a close view of the building show the details of the columns. The capital on the columns indicate a doric architecture. The Greeks thought of the doric as bold or masculine which I find very fitting in defining the character of Abraham Lincoln. The entire building in and or itself resembles a smaller parthenon which was also view as a strong symbol for the Greeks and it still is viewed today. The Lincoln Memorial stands as a symbol of strength and courage and also unity as a tribute to what Abraham Lincoln did for America. The building also shows triglyphs and and metopes in the entablature.