Architectural theory can be specific and prescriptive, as in the work of Vitruvius or Serlio where theory answers the needs of architects seeking instruction to practical tasks, or, on a more polemical level such as in Sant'Elia's Messaggio or Le Corbusier'sTowards A New Architectureit addresses social, cultural or grammaticalcompositional endeavors.
It is a premise of this course that most architectural propositions are a reflection of some conceptual structure; that is, whether implicit or explicit, most works of architecture are affected by ideological notions and cultural values. As such, we might structure a series of questions this semester: can one readily detect the application of theory in buildings? How does theory affect the production of architecture? Is artistic theory an apriopriot application (prescient oracle) for the development of form, or an ex post facto justification for built work? And finally, how are ethical and aesthetic principles formulated and manifested in architecture?
Pedagogical Objectives:
The course requires the active participation of students as it is predicated that the class identify and examine specific topics that serve as reference points during the semester. We will examine various theoretical positions throughout history and analyze them to show their philosophical and ideological intentions as well as their overall effect on architectural practice.
Since clues to the theory of architecture may reside in texts either marginally related to or completely outside of the discipline, attention cannot be restricted to strictly architectural sources. Interpretations therefore will be drawn from the margins of architectural discourse as well as such discilines as philosophy, urban and literary theory which includes various politicopolemical works.
Requirements:
Students will undertake individual research on some aspect of architectural theory and present their findings in class. In addition there will be a series of papers exploring various facets of the discipline.
Prerequisites for the course: All students must have completed their history requirements, or , permission of the instructor.
This course is a professional elective.
