History of Environmental Arts: Part I

Part one of a four-part survey of environmental arts of the Western world. This course covers the architectural and arts history of the Aegean, Greek, Roman, early Christian and Byzantine cultures encompassing early Medieval, Romanesque and Gothic periods. Instruction focuses on the man-built environment as influenced by geographical location, as well as the social, religious, economic and political forces of each historical period. Topics include major monuments in terms of function, symbolism, methods of fabrication, style, use of color, ornament and significance. The major artists, architects and designers of the various periods are also introduced. Illustrated lectures, selected readings and student projects develop an appreciation of the rich cultural heritage of the Western world, as well as the ability to utilize library and museum resources and recognize and evaluate significant environmental design movements. The course helps students understand the achievements of the past in order to more fully understand the present.