In this course, we will study the architecture of Ancient Rome, beginning with its origins in the eighth century BC, and continuing through the fourth century AD with the move of the Roman capital to Constantinople.
The course of lectures and readings outlined below will familiarize you with the major building methods and styles used in Roman architecture. In addition, interior decoration (including the very important topic of Roman wall painting) will be addressed. By the end of the course, you will be able to identify some of the most important works of Roman architecture and discuss the historical and cultural conditions that informed their production.
An important theme throughout the first half of the course is the relationship between Ancient Rome and Greek and Etruscan cultures, which were highly influential in the formation of a distinctive Roman architecture. Understanding the role that Roman architecture played in the eastern and western Roman provinces is also significant to this course, as it draws Roman architecture into a broader geographical and cultural context. Roman art and culture were tremendously important for Western culture after the fall of the Roman Empire; by completing this course, you will be well-prepared for study of later Western architecture.
Requirements: have completed Art Appreciation and Techniques, Introduction to Western Art History—Pre-historic to High Gothic, Introduction to Western Art History—Proto-Renaissance to Contemporary Art, and four 200-level ARTH courses.
