History of Architectural Theory — From Vitruvius to the Present

Author: (German) Krucke, translated by Wang Guixiang
Publisher:
Publishing Date: 2005-09-01
Features: This pioneering critical review of the most important architectural theory concepts in Europe and North America will be well-received for its coherent expression of such a grand thematic scope. Architectural theory is defined as "any written architectural system, complete or partial, based on aesthetic standards." Professor Krucke's interpretations of each significant architectural theorist are grounded in his personal readings of original texts, including Vitruvius's works, treatises, practical manuals, and exemplary pattern books by Renaissance Italian authors, as well as utopian philosophical or broader aesthetic, archaeological, or literary works, and expressions by architects from more recent periods. Citations of foreign literature are presented in English translation, with the original texts of the quoted passages appended in footnotes. The author reveals the richness and diversity of themes in architectural theory over many centuries: the origins and correct proportions of the orders, concepts such as "individuality," "truth to materials," "function," the provision of popular housing, and the pursuit of material forms for the happiness of individuals in a just society. Illustrations are an indispensable component of architectural theory literature, and the book includes over 200 carefully selected, pivotal plate examples. It also features substantial and credible footnotes, as well as an extremely rich bibliography. Since its debut in German in 1985, this book has established itself as a key international work in the field. The current English translation is timely from a philological perspective. "This book may preserve the history of architectural theory for us forever. Its rich, brimming style provides a fundamental reference tool for scholars and researchers." – Neue Zürcher Zeitung (Switzerland) Starting in 1982, Hanno-Walter Krucke served as a professor of art history at Augsburg University until his death in 1993. He was particularly renowned for his works on Italian sculpture history, German art, Goethe-era aesthetic theory, and 20th-century architecture and architectural theory. This book is a pioneering critical review of the most important architectural theory concepts in Europe and North America. It provides a detailed introduction to the world history and theory of architecture since Vitruvius, revealing the richness and diversity of themes in architectural theory over many centuries. Professor Krucke's interpretations of each significant architectural theorist are grounded in his personal readings of original texts, including Vitruvius's works, treatises, practical manuals, and exemplary pattern books by Renaissance Italian authors, as well as utopian philosophical or broader aesthetic, archaeological, or literary works, and expressions by architects from more recent periods. Citations of foreign literature are presented in English translation, with the original texts of the quoted passages appended in footnotes. Illustrations are an indispensable component of architectural theory literature, and the book includes over 200 carefully selected, pivotal plate examples. It also features substantial and credible footnotes, as well as an extremely rich bibliography. The book was first published in German in 1985, followed by an English edition. It has become a classic work with international influence in the field due to its grand thematic scope and its status as a key international work. This book is highly valuable for architects, students, and faculty in related fields, serving as an excellent reference for studying the history of world architecture and as a teaching resource. This book is suitable for architects, students, and faculty in related fields.