Discobolus (after Myron) 450 BC

This is a Roman copy in marble of the Discobolus, a bronze statue made by the Greek sculptor Myron in the 5th century BC. This image embodies the values of ancient Greek society, which placed a high value on athleticism and physical perfection. Here, the image creates meaning through visual codes and cultural references. The athlete’s nakedness, for example, references the Greek athletic tradition, where athletes competed in the nude. The perfect proportions and muscular physique of the figure embody the Greek ideal of human beauty, and the statue’s dynamic pose suggests the energy and vitality of athletic competition. As art historians, we look to understand how institutions, such as the gymnasium, where athletes trained, shaped artistic production. Further research into primary sources, such as ancient texts and archaeological evidence, helps us understand the social conditions that gave rise to this artwork and its celebration of the human form.