Architecture, Culture, and Meaning

Catalog description

This course focuses on architecture as a cultural artifact and provides an overview of the interrelationship of architectural form, organization, symbolism, use and meaning. A broad range of examples from a variety of cultures, religions, and historical periods are covered (including "non-Western"), illustrated by detailed case studies. Syncretic, holistic and homological approaches to understanding the meaning and significance of architecture are emphasized. Phenomenological and hermeneutical methods of interpretation are introduced and pertinent philosophical traditions discussed. Restricted to M.Arch., B.Arch., and BEDA seniors. Non-architecture majors by instructor's permission.