Who Started the Greek Craze AP Art History?

Art|Art History

In the early 2000s, the term “Greek Craze” became popular to describe the rising interest of art and culture in ancient Greece. It was a movement that swept across the world, from museums to classrooms. But who started it all?

The answer may surprise you. The Greek Craze is often attributed to the popular Advanced Placement (AP) Art History course, which was first offered in 1972 by the College Board.

The course was designed to help students explore and appreciate works of art from different cultures and time periods, including those from ancient Greece. It also provided a comprehensive overview of the history and development of art from prehistory to modern times.

The course was an instant success and soon became a staple in high schools across the country. It provided students with an opportunity to learn about Greek culture without having to travel abroad, as well as a chance to appreciate the beauty and complexity of ancient Greek art. This led to an increased interest in everything related to Greece, from its architecture and sculptures, to its literature and mythology.

In addition, museums began hosting exhibitions featuring Greek works of art, while books on Greek culture were published at a rapid pace. Movies like Troy, 300, and Clash of the Titans, all released between 2004-2010, further fueled public fascination with ancient Greece.

So who started it all? While there is no definitive answer, it’s safe to say that AP Art History played a major role in sparking worldwide interest in Greek culture.

The introduction of this course opened up opportunities for students around the world to explore ancient Greece through its artwork. This gave rise to an increased appreciation for the culture and its legacy that continues today. With its comprehensive overview of art history coupled with easy access for students at home or abroad, AP Art History is certainly responsible for starting the Greek Craze.

Conclusion:


The introduction of AP Art History in 1972 sparked worldwide interest in ancient Greek culture – leading us into what we now refer to as ‘the Greek Craze’. With its comprehensive overview of art history coupled with easy access for students at home or abroad, AP Art History is certainly responsible for starting this phenomenon.