Summary MidTerm.pdf

Table of Contents WEEK 01 - Introduction.......................................................................................... 4 WEEK 02 - Human History...................................................................................... 5 WEEK 02 - Overview of Ancient Egypt.......................

Table of Contents WEEK 01 - Introduction.......................................................................................... 4 WEEK 02 - Human History...................................................................................... 5 WEEK 02 - Overview of Ancient Egypt..................................................................... 7 Key Influences..............................................................................................................7 WEEK 03 - Ancient Greece...................................................................................... 8 Influences on Architecture:...........................................................................................8 Architectural Features:.................................................................................................8 Public Spaces:..............................................................................................................8 WEEK 03 - Ancient Rome........................................................................................ 9 Influences on Architecture:...........................................................................................9 Architectural Innovations:.............................................................................................9 Multi-Functional Buildings:...........................................................................................9 Architectural Theory:....................................................................................................9 Definitions.................................................................................................................. 10 Architecture............................................................................................................... 11 Residential Architecture............................................................................................. 11 Cultural Evolution....................................................................................................... 11 WEEK 04 - Alternative History in Architecture....................................................... 12 The Seven Wonders of the Ancient World..................................................................... 12 The Pyramids of Giza................................................................................................... 12 Egyptian Society and Architecture.................................................................................................. 12 Iconoclasm and Cultural Significance............................................................................................ 12 Pyramid of the Sun, Teotihuacán, Mexico (200AD)........................................................ 13 The Tomb of Emperor Nintoku, Osaka, Japan (3rd-6th century)..................................... 13 Great Stupa of Sanchi, Central India (3rd century BC).................................................. 13 Great Mosque of Djenne, Mali, West Africa (13th century)............................................ 13 The Great Wall of China............................................................................................... 14 Machu Picchu............................................................................................................. 14 WEEK 05 - Early Christian + Byzantine Architecture.............................................. 15 Historical Context....................................................................................................... 15  Architectural Influences............................................................................................. 15 Architectural Features................................................................................................ 15 Notable Examples....................................................................................................... 15 Byzantine Characteristics........................................................................................... 16 WEEK 05 - Islamic Architecture............................................................................ 16 Historical Context....................................................................................................... 16 Architectural Influences............................................................................................. 16 Architectural Features................................................................................................ 16 Notable Examples:...................................................................................................... 16 Cultural Significance:................................................................................................. 17 WEEK 06 – Japanese Architecture......................................................................... 18 Geographical Influence............................................................................................... 18 Climate...................................................................................................................... 18 Religion...................................................................................................................... 18 Socio-political Context............................................................................................... 19 Materials.................................................................................................................... 19 Key Architectural Concepts......................................................................................... 19 Historical Periods....................................................................................................... 19 Prehistoric Japan............................................................................................................................ 19 Classical Period (Asuka, Nara, Heian)............................................................................................. 19 Feudal Period (Kamakura, Muromachi, Azuchi-Momoyama)........................................................... 19 Edo Period...................................................................................................................................... 19 Modern Japan................................................................................................................................. 20 Notable Structures..................................................................................................... 20 Week 07 – Following the Silk Road........................................................................ 21 Overview of the Silk Road............................................................................................ 21 Historical Timeline...................................................................................................... 21 Geography and Trade Routes....................................................................................... 21 Goods and Cultural Exchange..................................................................................... 21 Architectural Influence............................................................................................... 22 Impact of the Silk Road............................................................................................... 22 Decline of the Silk Road.............................................................................................. 22 WEEK 01 - Introduction WEEK 02 - Human History The three major energy paradigms of human history represent the primary ways in which societies have harnessed energy to sustain their livelihoods and support their structures. Here's a brief explanation of each: 1. Foraging (Nomadic Societies): This paradigm encompasses the earliest human societies, which relied on hunting, gathering, and fishing for subsistence. These nomadic groups moved frequently in search of food, and their settlements were temporary, reflecting the availability of resources. The energy harnessed during this period was primarily from natural sources, and the social structures were often small and egalitarian due to the mobile lifestyle. 2. Farming (Agrarian Societies): The transition to farming marked a significant shift in human history, often referred to as the Neolithic Revolution (~10,000 BC). Agrarian societies established permanent settlements as they began to cultivate crops and domesticate animals, leading to food surpluses. This surplus allowed populations to grow and communities to become more complex, with the development of social hierarchies and various occupations. The energy harnessed during this period was largely derived from the sun (via crops) and animal labor. 3. Fossil Fuels (Industrial Societies): The industrial revolution introduced a new paradigm characterized by the use of fossil fuels (coal, oil, and natural gas) as primary energy sources. This led to unprecedented levels of production, urbanization, and technological advancement. Industrial societies saw the rise of factories, significant changes in labor structures, and a shift in the social order as energy became more concentrated and accessible. This paradigm fundamentally altered the relationship between humans and the environment due to increased resource extraction and environmental impacts. These paradigms illustrate the evolving relationship of humans with energy resources throughout history, shaping social structures, economies, and environmental interactions. WEEK 02 - Overview of Ancient Egypt Ancient Egypt was a civilization that thrived along the Nile River, known for its remarkable achievements in architecture, art, religion, and governance. It is noted for its monumental constructions like pyramids and temples, which were central to their culture and beliefs. Key Influences 1. Geography: Access to the Mediterranean and Red Seas facilitated trade. The Nile River was crucial for communication, transportation, and agriculture, creating a surplus of food which supported a large population. 2. Geology: Stone was the primary building material, with limestone, sandstone, and granite used for constructing monuments. The durability of these materials has allowed many structures to survive for millennia. 3. Climate: The dry climate with minimal rainfall preserved tombs and temples, contributing to their longevity. 4. Religion: Pharaohs were considered gods, and the society was polytheistic, worshipping numerous deities such as Ra (Sun God) and Anubis (God of Death) []. Priests wielded significant power due to their knowledge of rituals and education, influencing governance. 5. Socio-Politics: The social structure was hierarchical, with the Pharaoh at the top, followed by priests, artisans, and workers. The centralized government commanded monumental projects, often relying on a large workforce, including slaves, for construction. 6. World Events: Ancient Egypt's history spans thousands of years, with key events including the rise and fall of dynasties, invasions by foreign powers like the Persians and Greeks, and cultural exchanges with neighboring civilizations. WEEK 03 - Ancient Greece Influences on Architecture: - Geography: The presence of many natural harbors facilitated trade and city development, while the mountainous terrain led to isolated city-states (e.g., Athens, Sparta) with distinct cultures. - Geology: Availability of materials like marble, brick, and stone influenced construction techniques. - Climate: The warm climate encouraged outdoor public activities and influenced architectural features like shaded porticos. - Religion: The polytheistic Greek religion greatly influenced temple architecture, with temples serving as houses for the gods. - Socio-Politics: The polis (city-state) was the basic unit, with different governance structures (e.g., oligarchy in Sparta, democracy in Athens) affecting urban planning. - World Events: Major historical events like wars and conquests (Trojan War, Peloponnesian War) played a role in shaping the political and cultural landscape of Greece. Architectural Features: - Key architectural elements included temples, typically comprising an entry porch (pronaos), a main chamber (naos), and a throne room. - The Parthenon is highlighted as a quintessential example of Greek architecture, showcasing the use of the Golden Ratio. - Column orders: Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian, along with their characteristics. Public Spaces: The Acropolis and Agora exemplified the social and political aspects of Greek architecture, serving as centers for civic life. WEEK 03 - Ancient Rome Influences on Architecture: - Roman geography lacked natural harbors but allowed for the merging of city-states into a powerful empire. - The availability of materials like travertine, tufa, and Pozzolana facilitated advancements in concrete construction. - Roman religion, similar to Greek polytheism, featured numerous gods, and temples were dedicated to these deities. - The socio-political structure evolved from a republic with aristocratic control to an empire under a single ruler. Architectural Innovations: - The document contrasts Greek post-and-lintel construction with Roman arch construction, highlighting the latter's innovations like the use of the arch in aqueducts. - Temples, such as the Pantheon, are discussed for their engineering achievements, including a coffered ceiling and an oculus. - Public spaces like the Forum and various theaters (e.g., Theater of Marcellus) were central to Roman civic life. Multi-Functional Buildings: - Roman baths, such as the Baths of Caracalla, served multiple functions beyond bathing, including education and social gathering. Architectural Theory: - The document mentions Vitruvius's "The Ten Books on Architecture," which outlines principles of architecture that emphasize firmness, commodity, and delight. Definitions 1. The Propylaea: The Propylaea serves as a ceremonial gateway that separates the secular and religious parts of the city, located at the Acropolis in Athens. 2. The Erectheion: This temple is notable for its unique architectural features, including its asymmetrical design. It is famous for having Caryatids, which are columns in the form of female figures, supporting the structure. 3. The Parthenon: The Parthenon is a temple dedicated to the goddess Athena, located on the Acropolis in Athens. It exemplifies classical Greek architecture and showcases the Doric style. The Parthenon is celebrated for its grandeur and the use of the Golden Ratio. 4. Doric Style: This is one of the classical orders of ancient Greek architecture, characterized by its massive columns that have no base and a simple capital. It is considered the simplest and most robust of the three architectural styles. 5. Ionic Style: The Ionic style is more slender and elegant than the Doric style. It features an ornamental base and volutes (spiral scrolls) at the capital. This style is often associated with temples dedicated to goddesses. 6. Corinthian Style: This is the most slender and ornate of the classical orders, characterized by a capital adorned with acanthus leaves. The Corinthian style is often used in grand and monumental structures. 7. Caryatids: Caryatids are architectural elements that take the form of female figures used as columns to support entablatures or roofs. They are famously featured in the Erectheion temple. 8. Roman Temples : The Roman temple is described as having an overall form similar to Greek temples, but with a distinct architectural feature where the side columns merge with the wall. This design choice serves to reinforce an axis, meaning that the columns align with an imaginary line that runs through the center of the temple, emphasizing a sense of symmetry and order. 9. Pantheon : The Pantheon in Rome has a perfect circle that can be inscribed in its building's plan and section. Additionally, the Pantheon features a coffered ceiling, which helps to reduce the weight of the dome. The oculus at the top of the dome allows light to enter from the roof, contributing to the building's architectural significance and aesthetic appeal. Architecture - Tombs and Temples: These structures were vital to the Egyptians, reflecting their beliefs in the afterlife. The Great Pyramids of Giza, built between 2550-2490 BC, served as tombs for pharaohs and required immense labor for construction. - Tomb Features: The pyramids had multiple burial chambers and were often filled with treasures. The Tomb of Tutankhamun, discovered in 1922, showcased the rich burial practices of the time. - Temple Functions: Temples served multiple purposes, including religious rituals, education, and government functions. The Temple of Amon at Karnak is an example of significant temple architecture. Residential Architecture - Housing varied from that of the elite, with separate quarters for servants and granaries, to artisan houses designed for ventilation and minimal sunlight. Cultural Evolution - Egyptian architecture remained largely unchanged for thousands of years, but influences from other cultures began to seep in around the 5th century BC, resulting in variations in design. WEEK 04 - Alternative History in Architecture This section discusses the concept of alternative history, noting that architectural history has predominantly been written from a Western perspective that often excludes non-Western contributions. It aims to integrate a broader range of cultural narratives and recognizes the complexity and diversity within architectural discourse. The Seven Wonders of the Ancient World The document lists the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, including the Statue of Zeus, Colossus of Rhodes, Lighthouse of Alexandria, Temple of Artemis, Mausoleum at Halicarnassus, Pyramid of Giza, and Hanging Gardens of Babylon. It also mentions other significant structures like the Great Mosque of Djenne and the Great Wall of China, indicating themes in ancient wonders related to power and cultural significance. The characteristics of wonders include their ambitious and monumental scale, serving as declarations of power and authority. The concept of monumentality is explored, highlighting how monuments symbolize cultural ideals and connect past and future generations. The Pyramids of Giza Detailed discussion on the Pyramids of Giza as royal tombs and their significance in Egyptian culture. The pyramids are seen as symbols of authority and afterlife, designed to assist the pharaohs in their ascension to heaven. The construction techniques and architectural elements, such as the limestone casing and pyramidion, are also examined. Egyptian Society and Architecture The social hierarchy of ancient Egypt and its influence on domestic spaces is discussed, along with the layout and function of Egyptian homes. The document emphasizes the role of the Nile River in shaping Egyptian society and architecture. Iconoclasm and Cultural Significance The concept of iconoclasm is introduced, explaining the importance of images and monuments in ancient Egyptian culture. The document discusses the motivations behind defacing statues and monuments as a means of deactivating their power. Pyramid of the Sun, Teotihuacán, Mexico (200AD) - The pyramid was erected as a ceremonial mound used to gather people for ritual exchanges. - Association with the symbol of time marking the place where time began. - The pyramids are made with bulky materials like pumice, gravel, and blocks of volcanic ash. - The entire surface of the pyramid was covered with lime plaster. - Used for religious ceremonies, the pyramid is capped with a flat platform. The Tomb of Emperor Nintoku, Osaka, Japan (3rd-6th century) - Also known as the ‘Daisen Mounded Tomb’, or Kofun. - The mound houses the remains of Japan’s great ruler, Emperor Nintoku. - Distinctive keyhole shape and constructed using stepped terraces covered by cobblestones and surrounded by three moats. - Haniwa are terracotta pottery that were mass produced and laid on the tomb to provide symbolic protection. Great Stupa of Sanchi, Central India (3rd century BC) - Stupas are mound-like structures containing relics that are used as places of meditation. - The Great Stupa of Sanchi was thought of as the original place built over the remains of Buddha. - Heavily decorated bas-relief and ornamentation used to depict the life of Buddha. Great Mosque of Djenne, Mali, West Africa (13th century) - World’s largest mud-brick building and center for Islamic learning and the spread of teaching. - Constructed using sun-baked earth bricks called ferey. - Annual rebuilding ceremony festival known as Crepissage de la Grand Mosquée. The Great Wall of China - Historical Context: The Great Wall of China dates back to the 17th century BC and was primarily constructed as a defensive structure to protect against invasions from nomadic tribes in the North. It also served to facilitate the swift movement of people and military resources, symbolizing China's economic power and technological advancement. - Construction: The wall is a combined structure totalling approximately 10,000 km in length. It was built using various local materials and employed rammed earth techniques, with different types of filling depending on the specific location. The majority of the current structure was built during the Ming dynasty, while the Han dynasty extended parts of the wall into the Silk Road. - Cultural Significance: The Great Wall represented a cultural threshold, marking the boundary between the civilized and the barbaric. It became a symbol of cultural transmission, stability, and economic interdependence, and it epitomized the unification of China. Machu Picchu - Location and Structure: Machu Picchu is an Inca citadel located on a mountain ridge in Peru, built in the 15th century during the reign of Emperor Pachacuti. It served as a fortress and a strategic site, dominating the surrounding landscape. - Architectural Features: The site includes man-made stepped terraces used for agriculture and a sophisticated irrigation system that redirects stormwater and provides water during droughts. Machu Picchu was constructed using a technique called ashlar, which involves stacking cut stones without the use of mortar, showcasing the Incas' advanced engineering skills. - Reasons for Location: The elevated position of Machu Picchu provided natural defense, held religious significance aligned with Inca beliefs, and offered isolation, which was likely intentional to preserve its sacredness. Additionally, the varied microclimates and ecological zones of the mountainous terrain allowed for diverse agricultural practices. WEEK 05 - Early Christian + Byzantine Architecture Historical Context The Early Christian era began after the death of Christ and extended into the Byzantine period, which started when Emperor Constantine moved the capital to Byzantium (Constantinople) in 324 CE. The Edict of Milan in 313 CE granted legitimacy to Christianity, marking a significant change in religious architecture. Architectural Influences - Geography and Geology: The architecture was influenced by available materials and the geography of the regions. For instance, in areas with poor building stone, spolia (reused classical elements) were often employed in new constructions. - Climate: The temperate climate had minimal impact on architectural styles; however, buildings were designed to accommodate local conditions. - Religion: Early Christian architecture adapted Roman basilicas for Christian worship, creating new building types such as the baptistery for rituals. The architecture often included flexible floor plans to accommodate congregational gatherings. Architectural Features - Building Types: Important building types included the Roman basilica, which featured an axial plan, and Byzantine churches which incorporated domes and centralized plans []. - Spatial Organization: The architecture emphasized new types of spaces for rituals, with distinct areas like the apse, nave, and aisles []. Notable Examples - The Basilica of St. Peter in Rome (329 CE) and the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem (333 CE) are significant examples that reflect the adaptation of Roman structures for Christian use [], []. - The Church of San Vitale in Ravenna (548 CE) is noted for its centralized plan and elaborate mosaics, illustrating the transition into Byzantine architecture []. Byzantine Characteristics - Byzantine architecture is distinguished by its extensive use of domes, particularly exemplified by the Hagia Sophia in Constantinople (532-537 CE), which featured a massive dome supported by pendentives. - The blending of axial and centralized plans created unique spatial experiences in Byzantine churches. WEEK 05 - Islamic Architecture Historical Context Islamic architecture developed rapidly following the death of the Prophet Muhammad in 632 CE, with significant expansion occurring in the 7th and 8th centuries. Architectural Influences - Islamic architecture borrowed features from various cultures it encountered, including Byzantine, Persian, and Roman influences. This resulted in a diverse architectural language. - Geography and Climate: The use of local materials and adaptation to arid climates influenced architectural styles, leading to innovations like the mashrabiya for ventilation. Architectural Features - Religious Spaces: Islamic mosques are designed for ritual worship and include specific features like the qibla wall and mihrab niche. - Prohibition of Images: Islamic architecture typically avoids representations of humans or animals, instead favoring intricate geometric patterns and calligraphy. Notable Examples: - The Great Mosque of Kairouan (670 CE) and the Dome of the Rock (691 CE) are notable for their architectural grandeur and religious significance. - The Mosque of Cordoba (786-987 CE) showcases the use of horseshoe arches and a multi-columned hypostyle hall. Cultural Significance: - The mosque serves as a social and political center, reflecting the integral role of religion in Islamic life. - The Alhambra in Granada (889-1300 CE) exemplifies the intricate artistry and complexity typical of Islamic architecture. WEEK 06 – Japanese Architecture Geographical Influence Japan consists of four main islands and over 3,000 smaller ones. Its geography features mountains, water bodies, and a limited amount of flat land suitable for building, which impacts architectural design. Approximately 1/4 of Japan is buildable land due to its mountainous terrain Four main islands : 1. Hokkaido: Located in the northern part of Japan, Hokkaido is known for its cold winters and beautiful natural landscapes, including national parks and ski resorts. 2. Honshū: This is the largest and most populous island, home to major cities such as Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. It features diverse climates and geography, ranging from mountains to coastal areas. 3. Shikoku: The smallest of the four main islands, Shikoku is known for its rural landscapes and the famous 88 Temple Pilgrimage route. It has a mild climate and is less densely populated compared to Honshū. 4. Kyūshū: Located in the southwestern part of Japan, Kyūshū is known for its volcanic activity, hot springs, and beautiful coastlines. It has a warm climate and is often considered the gateway to the rest of Asia. Climate Japan experiences varied climates, from the cold of Hokkaido to the warmth of Kyushu, affecting building techniques and materials used. Religion Shintoism and Buddhism are the two primary religions influencing Japanese architecture. Shinto focuses on the kami (spirits) and emphasizes nature, while Buddhism introduced concepts of meditation and simplicity. Socio-political Context The architectural style in Japan has changed with shifting power dynamics, from the imperial court to military rule during the Edo period. Materials Traditional Japanese architecture primarily uses wood due to its flexibility, which is crucial for earthquake resistance. Other materials include stone, bamboo, and mud. Key Architectural Concepts - Wabi-Sabi : This aesthetic principle emphasizes beauty in imperfection and the acceptance of the natural cycle of life and death. - Ma : Refers to the concept of negative space, where the empty space holds as much significance as the structures themselves. Historical Periods Prehistoric Japan The early architectural forms during the Jōmon, Yayoi, and Kofun periods were simple and functional. Classical Period (Asuka, Nara, Heian) The introduction of Buddhism influenced the construction of temples and shrines, such as Hōryūji and the Ise Grand Shrine. The architecture from this period reflects a blend of Chinese influence and indigenous styles [], []. Feudal Period (Kamakura, Muromachi, Azuchi-Momoyama) Characterized by the rise of military rule, this period saw the construction of castles and fortified residences. The architecture often reflected the power of the samurai class. Edo Period Marked by the Tokugawa Shogunate, this period saw a flourishing of urban architecture, including traditional houses (Minka) and the establishment of a strict social hierarchy. Modern Japan Post-1868, following the Boshin War and the Meiji Restoration, Japan began to modernize, adopting Western architectural styles while still valuing traditional aesthetics. Notable Structures - Hōryūji Temple: The oldest surviving wooden structure, showcasing early Buddhist architecture. - Ise Grand Shrine: Represents the essence of Japanese architecture, emphasizing simplicity and the connection to nature. - Zen Gardens and Teahouses: Reflect the principles of Zen Buddhism, focusing on tranquility and simplicity. Week 07 – Following the Silk Road Overview of the Silk Road The Silk Road was not just a singular road but a network of trade routes connecting East and West, facilitating the exchange of goods, culture, and ideas. Established around 500 BCE, it remained significant until the 15th century, playing a crucial role in trade between diverse civilizations, including those in Ancient Egypt, Greece, Rome, and the Islamic world. Major commodities like silk, spices, and precious metals were traded, significantly impacting economies and societies across continents. Historical Timeline Key periods include the development of the Persian Royal Road under King Darius I (500-330 BCE), which acted as an ancient highway, enhancing communication and reducing travel time for merchants. Alexander the Great’s conquests (356-323 BCE) also expanded connections between the West and China. During the Han Dynasty (200 BCE - 220 CE), Emperor Wu initiated trade with the West, strengthening ties through diplomats like Zhang Qian. The Mongol Empire (8th-13th centuries) unified nomadic tribes under Genghis Khan, securing vast portions of the Silk Road and boosting trade. Geography and Trade Routes The geography of Central Asia, with deserts like the Taklamakan and mountain ranges like the Himalayas, significantly shaped the trade routes. Key trading hubs, such as the Sogdian cities, played a pivotal role. Caravansaries, like the grand Sultan Han in Cappadocia, were essential roadside inns, providing rest and facilitating commerce. Goods and Cultural Exchange The Silk Road allowed for the exchange of a variety of goods: from the East, silk, spices, tea, and porcelain; from the West, animals, glassware, textiles, and precious metals. The Sogdian tribes, acting as intermediaries, helped foster this trade. Cultural exchanges also flourished, particularly the spread of Buddhism from India to Central Asia and China. Religious texts and significant religious sites, like the Sanchi Stupa, were developed along these routes. Architectural Influence Architectural styles along the Silk Road reflect the blending of cultures. Notable structures such as the Great Wall of China, the Taj Mahal, and the Sultan Ahmed Mosque in Istanbul show the influence of designs and materials sourced from various regions along the route. Caravansaries, with their distinctive layouts, also symbolize the interconnectedness of different societies. Impact of the Silk Road The Silk Road had a profound economic impact, enabling merchants and even nomads to gain political power through trade. It also facilitated the spread of ideas, religions, and unfortunately, diseases such as the bubonic plague, which had devastating consequences for many societies. The flourishing merchant class gained considerable influence due to their wealth and control of trade networks. Decline of the Silk Road The decline of the Silk Road was influenced by the rise of maritime trade routes, which became more efficient with new technologies, as well as the collapse of the Mongol Empire, which had provided stability for the overland routes.