Course Contents

Greek Architecture and Civilization: Physical location and surroundings, Influences such as geographical, geological, climatic, religious, social and historical. Emphasis on Philosophy, Scientific inventions and discoveries, Philosophy of Socrates, Plato, Aristotle, Atomists, Sophists, Hellenic and Hellenistic Periods, Architectural Orders; Doric, Ionic, Corinthian, Principles of City Planning, Examples of Architecture such as Parthenon. Roman Architecture and civilization: physical location of Italian Peninsula and its surroundings, Etruscans, Rise of Romans, Punic Wars against Carthage, Establishment of Roman Empire, Influences on Architecture and materials used, Roman Orders of Architecture, such as Tuscan, Doric, Ionic, Corinthian and Composite, Building Typology, Temples; rectangular, circular and hexagonal, theatres, amphitheatres, Coliseum, Thermae, Circuses, Forums, Aqueducts and Bridges, Houses and Villas, Pantheons, Comparison of Greek and Roman Architecture. Hinduism and Buddhism in Indian Sub-Continent: Hindu religion, Sources of Hinduism such as Vedas, Mahabharta and Ramyna, Chief gods of Hinduism, Religious function and architectural scheme of a Hindu Temple, North Indian, Central Indian and Dravidian Temples, Rise of Buddhism, Mahatama Buddha, Chandra Gupta Mauryia and establishment of Mauryan Empire, Asoka and his role, Religious function and architectural scheme of Buddhist buildings and architectural elements such as Stupas, Monasteries, Chhatriyas (Umbrellas) and Laths, Fall of Buddhists and migration to other places, Spread of Buddhism to Far Eastern countries.

Course Synopsis

The purpose of studying the history of architecture when practicing contemporary architecture is to understand how architecture influences society and its culture. It studies its forms, purposes, and most importantly its evolution in relation to art, history and philosophy. Comparing and studying ancient and contemporary architecture is essential. It allows an architect to consider a buildings or cities as more than a visual phenomenon and therefore the architect would have a more fundamental and culturally inclusive approach to architecture than an approach based purely on architect's own style.

Course Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course the students should be able to Identify and utilize appropriate historic precedents towards architectural design in the studios. Understand the role of analysis and research in architectural history. Understand the role of historical factors and theory in design. Aware how to apply historical knowledge and theoretical concepts to design. Aware the of role and application of technology in architecture. Aware the role and application of building materials, structures, and environmental controls in architecture.