A6734 The Classical Language and Literature of Architecture
History/Theory LectureJohn H. Stubbs
COURSE DESCRIPTION
This course is a one-semester overview of the tradition of classical architecture beginning with Antiquity and tracing its various survivals and revivals over 2500 years. The components of classical architecture and a number of design possibilities are analyzed in detail, and landmarks in architectural literature which relate to the Orders and other aspects of classicism are discussed in lectures and on visits to the rare Book Reading Room of Avery Library. The subject is approached from the point of view of architectural design and encourages utilization of modern scholarship in the history and theory of architecture in the investigation of the aesthetic, social, historical, and political significance of classical architecture. Attention is also given to reactions to classicism as well as to the role the classical tradition played in shaping the architectural and building professions. Readings and lectures are structured in a developmental, chronological sequence and presume some familiarity with the history of architecture.
TOPICS
1. Classicism as Style and Aesthetic
2. Aspects of Ancient Greek Architecture
3. Aspects of Ancient Roman Architecture
4. Classical Survivals through the Middle Ages; and Renaissance (Part I)
5. Renaissance (Part II): Cinquecento Classicism
6. Andrea Palladio: His Circle and Influence
7. Baroque Classicism: Origins & Development in Italy
8. The Classical Tradition in France (Part I)
9. The Classical Tradition in France (Part II)
10. The Classical Tradition in England (Part I)
11. The Classical Tradition in England (Part II)
12. The Classical Tradition in the Low Countries, Germany, Central Europe & to 1800
13. International Neoclassicism, and 19 th Century English & French Architecture
14. International Neoclassicism, 19 th and early 20 th century architecture
PRIMARY READINGS
Robert Chitham, The Classical Orders of Architecture
Michael Greenhalgh, The Classical Tradition in Art
Geoffrey Scott, The Architecture of Humanism
John Summerson, The Classical Language of Architecture
Tzonis & Lefaivre, Classical Architecture: The Poetics of Order
Rudolph Wittkower, Architectural Principles in the Age of Humanism
COURSE REQUIREMENTS
- Weekly readings
- 15-page midterm paper on some aspect of architectural classicism or an equivalent graphic analysis dealing with the orders, classical ornament and/or an existing building design
- Maintenance of a course notebook with notes on lectures and readings
- Final examination covering course readings and lectures