1st Edition

Architecture, Aesthetics, and the Predicaments of Theory

By Amir H Ameri Copyright 2022
232 Pages
by Routledge

232 Pages
by Routledge

232 Pages
by Routledge

Architecture, Aesthetics, and the Predicaments of Theory offers a critical analysis of the methodological constants and shared critical strategies in the history of theoretical discourse on Western architecture. Central to these constants is the persistent role of aesthetics as a critical tool for the delimitation of architecture. This book analyzes the unceasing critical role aesthetics is... Read more

Table of Contents

I. In Retrospect

II. Leone Battista Alberti or The Ten Books on Architecture: From the Beautiful to the Ornamental

On Design and Matter

In the Cause of Perfection: On Drawings and Models

The Ethics of Convenience: On Tyrants and Kings

Opinions and Judgements: On the Beautiful and the UglyWith Pleasure and Disgust

On the Ornamental and the Theoretical

III. Marc-Antoine Laugier or An Essay on Architecture: From the True to the Supplemental

Transformations

On Cause and Effect

The Lesson and the Gift

On the True and the Beautiful

On Origination and Substitution

On the Essential and the Inconsequential

The Aftermath

IV. John Ruskin or The Seven Lamps of Architecture: From Incorporation to Dissolution

On Laws and Lights

On the Gift With/Out Return

On Truth and Deception

On Life and Death, by Analogy

On Power and Awe

On Pleasure and Disgust

On the Borderline

The Assimilation

V. The In/Terminable Return

The Theory’s Predicament

Biography

Amir H. Ameri is Professor of Architecture at the University of Colorado, Denver. He has taught architectural history, theory, and design at various academic institutions throughout the United States. His research and teaching explore the multifaceted dialogue between architecture and culture. His previous book, The Architecture of the Illusive Distance, was published by Ashgate/Routledge.