The Use of Geometry by Ancient Greek Architects

Abstract

The development of practical and theoretical geometry by the ancient Greeks was a significant cultural accomplishment, and it proved critical for the evolution of Greek architecture. Robert Hahn makes an extensive effort to demonstrate the value of Egyptian drawing techniques, asserting that the Egyptian ability to draw orthographically on papyrus, when passed on to the Greeks, contributed to the development of pre-Socratic thought. Practical geometry was a crucial element in the earlier step of construction for the process of actual design: estimating position, volume, dimensions, and setting proportions. The tools required for the actual drawing were simple. Drawings could be made using charcoal sticks made from grapevines, used widely in the Mediterranean even today as they provide a sharp, hard point. The process for designing both Greek and Roman theaters began with the application of a simple geometrical form to the plan.

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