An Introduction to the History of Architecture

The history of architecture is human history. In this course, we study the buildings, cities, and landscapes that societies have created over time, from ancient civilizations to the present day. We examine the architecture of our own campus and community with local field trips and walking tours. We explore key monuments from around the world, stressing a critical approach to architecture through the analysis of context, expressive content, function, structure, style, building technology, and theory. Assignments can incorporate drawing, photography, and debate as well as close reading and writing.