Art: Architecture for Athena

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In striking a balance between monumentality and friendliness, Gropius in some instances departed radically from ancient Greek models. Classic Greek houses had a closed, blank façade facing the street; the new U.S. embassy will be open and inviting, with neither walls, fences nor closed façade obstructing the view into the interior court. "The building will be approachable, and thus democratic," said Gropius. "The visitor will not feel the impact of authority, but will enter the building as a free man."