Module One
A SURVEY OF WESTERN ARCHITECTURE FROM ANCIENT GREECE TO THE GREAT GOTHIC CATHEDRALS OF FRANCE (PAPER 1: B1 NATURE IN ART AND ARCHITECTURE)
Introduction
This module should be read in conjunction with the Programme of Study.
The Programme of Study lists the topics that are in the module and gives you the relevant page references for your textbook. This module aims to give you more direction as you work through the various topics. It will aim to highlight the most important items in the topic, as well as areas that need particular care. It will also point you towards the resources you should be using.
Remember to double-check the syllabus to make sure you cover all the items that you need to.
Module Overview
In this module you will be introduced initially to the classical language of architecture, exploring significant ancient Greek and Roman buildings along the way. The centre of the Roman Empire moved east in the 4th century AD to Constantinople and became what we now call Byzantium. After the decline and fall of the Roman Empire in western Europe, the Church eventually emerged as a militant force in the 11th century. We pick up the story of architecture with the awe-inspiring Romanesque and Gothic cathedrals of this period.
Once you have completed this module, you will have the terminology necessary to analyse two thousand years of architecture. You will find a glossary on pages 937 to 949 of A World History of Art by Honour and Fleming and it is important to refer to this regularly in order to keep track of key terms as you work through the course. Please do make a point of memorising all of these technical terms! You will need them in your assignments and in the exams.
Highlighting new terminology as you come across it will ensure you have an ongoing record of what you have learnt. You may also find making flashcards of key terms (with the term on one side and the definition on the other) is a useful revision exercise. It’s a good idea to do this as you work through the modules rather than waiting to the end of the course.
Topics
Topic One (1.1): Ancient Greek Architecture
Topic Two (1.2): Ancient Roman Architecture
Topic Three (1.3): Romanesque and Gothic Architecture