How were pediments, metopes, friezes, and acroteria used in Greek temple sculpture?

In Greek temple architecture, sculpture was strategically integrated into specific structural elements to serve both decorative and narrative purposes. The placement of these sculptures was largely determined by the building's design.1

• Pediments: Located at the ends of the temple, the pediment provided a triangular field known as the tympanum. Because this space was a long, low triangle, sculptors faced the challenge of filling the awkward corners. Early solutions included using monsters or separate groups of varying sizes, while later artists utilized dynamic compositions of fighting, falling, and reclining figures to fit the space.21
• Metopes: In the Doric order, the frieze consisted of alternating triglyphs and metopes. These rectangular plaques provided individual fields for relief sculpture, often depicting heroic deeds or mythological narratives, such as the labors of Heracles.13
• Friezes: Beyond the metopes, a continuous sculptured frieze was often placed on the exterior wall of the cella, as seen in the Parthenon. These bands allowed for expansive, rhythmic narrative storytelling.43
• Acroteria: These were decorative pedestals or sculptures placed atop the pediment at the ridge and eaves. Originally simple petal-shaped ornaments, they evolved into elaborate groups of statuary.5