fall 2005
ARC 368/388R:
Nature and the Transcendental in American Architecture
Instructor:
Kate Holliday
Prerequisites
Students in the School of Architecture must have completed Surveys I-III. For students from other departments there are no prerequisites.
Course description
This lecture and discussion course explores the theme of nature and the transcendental in American architecture in the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. As historical models of architecture increasingly became problematic for some, architects turned to an abiding idea of Nature to provide a model for developing an architecture appropriate to the modern age. The abstract and mutable idea of Nature served multivalent purposes, providing on the one hand a respite or antidote to industrialization and providing on the other, a model on which to base the quest for authentic design. Throughout the semester we will look at concurrent developments in philosophy, literature, and art to flesh out the broader cultural context that affected architectural production. As a secondary theme, we will also consider the idea of regionalism and how local landscapes and traditions have affected architectural production.
Educational objectives
Students will become familiar with major figures, writings, and buildings in American architecture from 1800 to 1915 as well as major painters, writers, and critics who contributed to the development of the theme of nature in America. Students will refine their research, writing, and presentation skills through consultation with the instructor on a semester-long research project and will develop critical thinking skills through close reading.
Evaluation
Students will be required to submit discussion questions one day in advance of our scheduled discussions (15%) and class attendance and active participation in discussion is required (10%). There is a mid-term, which will consist of two essay questions (25%). A 15-20 minute presentation (20%) and a final research paper (12 pages), with topic to be determined in consultation with the instructor, are also required (30%).
Readings
This course will make active use of the Blackboard system (http://courses.utexas.edu), with readings and assignments posted on the site. The books below are available as inexpensive paperbacks, all at fifteen dollars or less for a new copy (lots of used copies are out there for less as well).
- Andrew Jackson Downing, The Architecture of Country Houses
- John Ruskin, The Seven Lamps of Architecture
- Frederick Law Olmsted, Civilizing American Cities: Writings on City Landscapes
- Calvert Vaux, Villas and Cottages
- Louis Sullivan, Kindergarten Chats and Other Writings