Typology 1
Michelangelo's "David" statue represents a traditional figurative monument because it blatantly depicts a human figure, promising transparency. It symbolizes strength and independence and the purpose of intentional monuments are to convey a direct message and can be understood in a clear way without abstractions
Typology 2
This typology is represented through Johannes Baader’s monument. Baader piled up a half-dozen different newspaper clippings and a number of other objects to form a towering “monument”. This created an unusual and untraditional way to expose the press as an instrument of propaganda and to represent wartime events.
Typology 3
For the third typology, we selected the site of JFK’s assassination. JFK’s assassination site is used to commemorate a historical day and event in American history. The site has multiple locations that break down parts of the assassination, but the site as a whole represents the day and event in itself. The JFK assassination site is an example of a site as a monument and the third typology discussed in the reading.
9 Points of Monumentality
We chose to use Michelangelo's David because we believe it embodies Point 1 of the 9 Points of Monumentality. Point 1 explains, “Monuments are human landmarks which men have created as symbols for their ideals, for their aims, and for their actions.” In essence, monuments are objects representing our ideal through symbolism and creativity. David was created to embody the virtues of courage and strength, hence his victory over Goliath, symbolizing Florence's own resistance and resilience.
6 Assumptions of Public Memory
Point 2 explains, “Memory narrates shared identities, constructing senses of communal belonging.” David symbolizes the strength of a human being and provides purpose to those looking for meaning. We believe David can also symbolize the shared identities of the public and bring people together in the pursuit of strength and resilience. The statue represents communal belonging and the need to reach one’s fullest sense of independence.