Date of Award
1-23-2026
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Heritage Studies, Ph.D.
First Advisor
Gregory Hansen
Committee Members
Edward Salo; Katherine Baker
Call Number
ISBN 9798273347809
Abstract
The Nashville Parthenon functions as a cultural and educational center, hosting exhibitions, performances, and lectures that delve into Greek mythology and its influence on Western civilization. By doing so, it bridges the gap between ancient and modern worlds, highlighting how the themes of Greek mythology remain relevant today. The links between the Athenian Parthenon and the Nashville Parthenon stand as a testament to the enduring power of Greek mythology, preserving its stories and symbols in a modern context. It illustrates how ancient heritage can be revitalized and celebrated, ensuring that the myths of gods and heroes continue to inspire and educate future generations. Its origins in the 1897 Tennessee Centennial highlights the importance and use of Greek heritage in American culture and is used as a symbol of Western heritage. The Nashville Parthenon is a representation of the continuation of Greek mythology into contemporary American heritage blending classical tradition with modern cultural identity. Examining the representations of Greek mythology at the Nashville Parthenon show how its persistence is relevant to representations of heritage in the United States. Both iterations of the Parthenon are examples of how intangible and tangible heritage can become intertwined. By drawing comparisons between the ancient and contemporary monuments, the changing role of Greek mythology in heritage can be further analyzed. It creates an accessible and relevant presentation of myths to today's audiences. This dissertation will ascertain key themes regarding how the Nashville Parthenon continues to embody ancient Greek heritage in the Western world through its depiction of narratives and storyworlds, earning the nickname “Athens of the South."
Rights Management
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-No Derivative Works 4.0 International License.
Recommended Citation
Bryles, Kathryn Marie, "Two Parthenons: The Convergence of Greek Myth and Western Heritage in Nashville" (2026). Student Theses and Dissertations. 1130.
https://arch.astate.edu/all-etd/1130
