The Elgin Marbles: Should They be Returned to Greece? : Book Review

"The Elgin Marbles: Should They Be Returned to Greece?" by Christopher Hitchens offers a thought-provoking exploration of the controversial ownership of these iconic Greek sculptures. Hitchens dives deep into the history and significance of the Elgin Marbles, which were taken from the Parthenon in Athens by Lord Elgin in the early 19th century and are currently housed in the British Museum.

In this book, Hitchens provides a thorough analysis of the arguments made by both sides of the debate surrounding the rightful ownership and display of the Elgin Marbles. He meticulously examines the legal, moral, and cultural aspects of the issue, raising valid questions about the legitimacy of Lord Elgin's actions and the subsequent British possession of the sculptures.

The author presents a compelling case for the restitution of the Elgin Marbles to Greece. He emphasizes the cultural importance of these sculptures as symbols of Greek heritage and contends that their return to Athens would allow for a more complete appreciation of their historical and artistic value within their original context.

Hitchens' writing style is engaging and persuasive, captivating readers with his extensive knowledge and his ability to present complex arguments in a clear and accessible manner. He offers a balanced examination of the different perspectives involved while ultimately advocating for the repatriation of the Elgin Marbles.

Overall, "The Elgin Marbles: Should They Be Returned to Greece?" is an enlightening and thought-provoking book that encourages readers to reconsider the ethics and implications of cultural appropriation. Hitchens' extensive research and compelling arguments make this an essential read for anyone interested in the ongoing debate surrounding the ownership of historic artifacts.

What are readers saying?

Christopher Hitchens' book "The Elgin Marbles" has received a range of reviews from readers. Some readers praise the book for its insightful and thought-provoking content, while others criticize it for its biased and judgmental tone.

Many reviewers appreciate Hitchens' extensive research and in-depth knowledge on the topic. They find the book informative and engaging as it delves into the historical, cultural, and political aspects surrounding the Elgin Marbles. Hitchens' eloquent writing style is also commended, as he effectively conveys his arguments and opinions.

However, there are some readers who express disappointment with the book's biased perspective. They feel that Hitchens presents a one-sided argument in favor of returning the Elgin Marbles to Greece, without properly considering opposing viewpoints or the complexities of the situation. These readers believe that Hitchens' strong opinions hinder the objectivity of the book.

Furthermore, a number of reviewers find the book overly academic and dense. They mention that prior knowledge of art history and ancient civilizations is necessary to fully appreciate the content. This, combined with Hitchens' verbose writing style, can make the book challenging to read for some readers.

Opinions are also divided on Hitchens' approach to the subject matter. Some readers appreciate his passionate and persuasive arguments, as well as his ability to connect the Elgin Marbles to broader issues of cultural heritage and imperialism. However, others criticize Hitchens for using inflammatory language and personal attacks, suggesting that it weakens his credibility and detracts from the book's potential impact.

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