Which of the following most fully describes how art was used in river valley civilizations and classical civilizations?

1. Art was used to legitimize religion and government.
2. Art was used to communicate important religious ideas.
3. Art reinforces social hierarchy, power, and religious authority.
4. Art was created for aesthetic reasons, focusing on decoration.
*I think it's #3.

You are correct. Option 3, "Art reinforces social hierarchy, power, and religious authority," best describes how art was used in both river valley civilizations and classical civilizations. In both cases, art was often used to depict rulers, religious figures, and important events in a way that reinforced their authority and elevated their status within society.

You are correct. Option 3, "Art reinforces social hierarchy, power, and religious authority," most fully describes how art was used in river valley civilizations and classical civilizations. In these civilizations, art served as a means to depict and reinforce the social structure, power dynamics, and religious beliefs of the society. It often portrayed rulers, gods, and religious ceremonies to uphold and emphasize the existing order and authority.

To determine the most accurate answer, we can evaluate each option and see which one aligns most closely with the use of art in both river valley and classical civilizations:

1. Art was used to legitimize religion and government: This is true for both river valley and classical civilizations. Art, such as sculptures and paintings, often depicted rulers and deities, emphasizing their divine authority and reinforcing the connection between religion and government.

2. Art was used to communicate important religious ideas: This is also true for both civilizations. Art served as a means of visually representing and communicating religious beliefs, rituals, and myths.

3. Art reinforces social hierarchy, power, and religious authority: This option accurately describes the use of art in both river valley and classical civilizations. Art was used to visually portray the social order and hierarchies, symbolize power, and reinforce religious authority.

4. Art was created for aesthetic reasons, focusing on decoration: While art did serve aesthetic purposes and decoration in both civilizations, this option does not fully capture the broader significance and functions of art in these societies.

Based on the analysis, option 3, "Art reinforces social hierarchy, power, and religious authority," appears to be the most comprehensive answer choice as it encompasses the various aspects of art's use in both river valley and classical civilizations. Therefore, option 3 is the closest match to your answer.