86 ARCHITECTURE. B00 K I. 



that the general form might be varied or improved upon, and 

 the parts more highly ornamented. Hence circular and other 

 forms were used in the general mass ; and hence also the Co- 

 rinthian and Composite capitals and cornices to the columns, 

 with several other improvements and decorations, were in- 

 troduced. 



It has already been observed, that this mode of architecture 

 was originally employed only in temples for religious worship. 

 In process of time ho wever^s individuals from different causes 

 acquired riches, the particulars of this mode of building began 

 to be applied to their houses, and hence the production of 

 sumptuous palaces, baths, and qther public buildings ; which, 

 as they required to be made of greater height than the temples, 

 were the source, even in Greece, of an entire change in this style 

 of architecture. In Greece, it would at first, probably, retain 

 much of its primitive simplicity and fitness ; but as this appli- 

 cation of the art became more general, it would give rise to a 

 numerous class of artists; among whom would be some of in- 

 ferior abilities,* who, it may reasonably be supposed, would 

 misplace the noblest parts. Accordingly, we find that columns 

 were placed in buildings where they had no real use, and thus 

 became mere ornaments. As those columns were generally 

 accompanied by cornices, these were also applied, and carried 

 across walls; which, as by a fatal blow to the genius of this 



