History of Architecture I

This course is a global-oriented survey of the history of architecture, from the prehistoric to the sixteenth century. It treats buildings and environments, including cities, in the context of the cultural and civilizational history. It offers an introduction to design principles and analysis. Being global, it aims to give the student perspective on the larger pushes and pulls that influence architecture and its meanings, whether these be economic, political, religious or climatic. The module will present a wide ranging series of ideas which have either informed the production of ancient buildings or help in understanding how their production has been influenced by their physical, social, economic, cultural or political context. The module aims to introduce students to areas of investigation and investigative methods that might be developed or utilized in their later years.