Architecture and its Texts (1650-1800)

This seminar focuses on a selection of important architectural writings from the late 17th and 18th centuries, with the aim of exploring the connections between architecture and textuality. We will proceed in two-week segments by pairing the close reading of given text with a theme that gives it shape as follows: Perrault and translation, Fischer von Erlach and archaeology; Laugier and origins; Bastide and eroticism; Piranesi and the avant-garde. This bi-fold structure will help us to think about how architecture and discourse come to define each other’s premises. Course work includes responses to readings, an oral presentation, and a final paper.

Prerequisites: Advanced knowledge of architectural history and theory is highly recommended. This course is intended primarily for students in the PhD, DDes, and MDEsS programs. Some places will be reserved for advanced MArch students who are beginning their thesis research.