Which architectural order was added by the Romans to the Greek orders?

Which architectural order was added by the Romans to the Greek orders?

• A. Composite
• B. Doric
• C. Ionic
• D. Tuscan

Answer: (A)

The concept here is how Romans expanded the Greek system by creating a new order. The Composite order is the Roman invention that does this by blending elements from two Greek orders—the scrolls and elegance of Ionic with the acanthus foliate richness of Corinthian—into one capital. This fusion results in a distinct, more ornate style that didn’t exist in Greek practice, signaling Roman tastes for grandeur and eclectic mixing. The Greek orders—Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian—originate in Greece, so they aren’t additions by Romans. The Tuscan order is a Roman adaptation that simplifies Doric, rather than forming a new hybrid. So the Composite stands out as the Roman-built, hybrid creation that augments the Greek framework.

The concept here is how Romans expanded the Greek system by creating a new order. The Composite order is the Roman invention that does this by blending elements from two Greek orders—the scrolls and elegance of Ionic with the acanthus foliate richness of Corinthian—into one capital. This fusion results in a distinct, more ornate style that didn’t exist in Greek practice, signaling Roman tastes for grandeur and eclectic mixing.

The Greek orders—Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian—originate in Greece, so they aren’t additions by Romans. The Tuscan order is a Roman adaptation that simplifies Doric, rather than forming a new hybrid. So the Composite stands out as the Roman-built, hybrid creation that augments the Greek framework.