Course finder

Semester 2

Architectural History 1B: Revivalism to Modernism (ARHI08004)

Subject

Architectural History

College

CAHSS

Credits

20

Normal Year Taken

1

Delivery Session Year

2023/2024

Pre-requisites

**Please see Additional Restrictions below**

Course Summary

This course is an introductory survey of architectural history in a range of global settings between c. 1775 and 2000. It is not just about buildings and designs, but seeks to place architecture in its historical contexts. What can architecture tell us about wider developments in social, political, cultural and urban history? How did those contexts inform design and practice?

Course Description

Running through the course is the idea of 'modernity'. How has this idea informed architectural debate and production? The course begins with the stylistic revivals that dominated western architecture in the early nineteenth century. It also discusses the nineteenth century development of new typologies along with the new materials and technologies that made them possible. In the second part of the course, we turn to twentieth-century Modernism in global contexts, including Europe, Africa, and Latin America. We will explore how architects and their clients sought to invent new architectures, and the ways in which the results balanced international agendas with local and national concerns. The course concludes with the revision of Modernism in the 1950's and 60's and the emergence of a Post-modern consciousness. We welcome the perspectives that students from a range of disciplinary backgrounds can bring to the course. We understand architecture in its wider historical and cultural contexts. No previous knowledge of architecture or its terminology is expected. The course is not a 'technical' one, nor does it involve design/drawing. It features introductory lectures (three per week), tutorial discussions (including site visits) (one per week), and independent reading/preparation (around 9-10 hours per week is expected). The course follows the semester 1 course, Architectural History 1A, but either course may be taken as a standalone option.

Assessment Information

Written Exam 40%, Coursework 60%, Practical Exam 0%

Additional Restrictions

Please note that spaces on Architectural History courses are limited and cannot be guaranteed for any students who are not nominated to study with us on an Architectural History or History of Art exchange agreement.

view the timetable and further details for this course