Gothic Philosophy

Catalog description

Can a building teach us to see the world differently? If so, can Gothic architecture allow us to see the world from the perspective of the Middle Ages? To answer these questions, we will look at recent writing on Gothic architecture, medieval texts that appear to be structured like buildings, and Gothic Revival books designed to evoke cathedrals. Because Pittsburgh is an important center of Gothic Revival architecture, we will also visit key Gothic buildings here in Pittsburgh. By the end of the term, students will be able to give an architectural reading of medieval philosophy, and a philosophical reading of Gothic architecture. It is strongly recommended that any students enrolling in this class have completed at least two Philosophy courses before it begins.