Abstract
This chapter examines the theory of Greek and Roman architecture. It begins by considering the traditional understanding of theory as more important than practice before turning to a discussion of Vitruvius’s treatise De architectura and his theory on architecture, particularly his ideas about the principles of symmetria, eurythmia, and decor. It then explores the design of ancient buildings and the theories underlying their construction. It shows that theoretical aspects of architecture emerged in ancient Greece and Rome over the course of the Classical and Hellenistic periods, which were consolidated by Vitruvius in his treatise. The chapter concludes by highlighting how theory related in a meaningful way to practice.
Original language | English |
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Title of host publication | The Oxford Handbook of Greek and Roman Art and Architecture |
Editors | Clemente Marconi |
Place of Publication | Oxford and New York |
Publisher | Oxford University Press |
Pages | 41-69 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 1 Nov 2014 |