Using Sources A and B, and your own knowledge, to what extent do you agree with this statement?
Model Answer
I partially agree with this statement. Whilst all the metopes demonstrate skilled craftsmanship, they vary considerably in how impressively they fulfil the criteria of effective sculptural decoration.
Source A (Cretan Bull) shows highly impressive use of space. The sculptor creates a dynamic diagonal composition with Heracles wrestling the bull, his lion-skin cloak flowing behind him to fill the upper right corner. The overlapping bodies create genuine depth, and the varied heights - with Heracles leaning back whilst the bull rears up - prevent a static, flat composition. The recognisability is excellent: the bull's imposing size and fierce expression clearly identify it as a divine creature, whilst Heracles' lion skin confirms his identity. The realism is convincing, with accurate anatomy in both figures and a believable distribution of weight as Heracles braces against the bull's power.
Source B (Belt of Hippolyta) is even more impressive in its compositional ambition. The sculptor depicts multiple Amazon warriors alongside Heracles and Hippolyta, creating a chaotic battle scene that fills every portion of the frame. The overlapping figures and varied poses - some standing, others fallen - create exceptional depth and movement. The recognisability is strong through Hippolyta's distinctive belt and the presence of female warriors, though the crowded scene could potentially confuse viewers unfamiliar with the myth. The realism in the human figures is excellent, with accurate musculature and believable combat poses, though the sheer number of figures makes the composition more challenging to execute successfully.
However, not all metopes are equally impressive. The Augean Stables metope, whilst locally significant, presents a less dramatic subject - Heracles redirecting rivers rather than battling monsters. This makes for a less visually impressive composition, despite its clever celebration of intelligence over strength. Similarly, the Cerberus metope, though thematically powerful as the final labour, shows a calmer scene of Heracles leading the subdued three-headed dog, lacking the dynamic tension of the wrestling scenes in Sources A and B.
Therefore, I disagree that all metopes are equally impressive. Whilst all demonstrate technical skill, those depicting physical combat (like Sources A and B, and also the Nemean Lion and Erymanthian Boar) create more impressive compositions through their dynamic diagonals, dramatic tension, and fuller use of the awkward rectangular space. The more peaceful labours, though symbolically important, are inherently less visually impressive as sculptural compositions.
