This course introduces the fundamental forms of Asian architecture within a cultural context from ancient times into the modern period. We survey the historical development of architectural traditions of India, China, Japan and the Islamic nations, and examine the cross-cultural influence among these countries and others in Southeast Asia. A final section up-dates the traditional vernacular by looking at the fusion of Eastern and Western architectural and engineering traditions in contemporary building projects along the Pacific Rim. Class lectures follow an established chronology within a geographic framework that progresses from west to east. The course utilizes a multi-disciplinarian approach. Students are given a "tool-kit" of methodologies with which to examine the plan and design of sacred, imperial and village architecture within the context of urban planning. Discussion in class also provides the model for the analysis of the iconographic meaning of structural and sculptural form. Ultimately, our analysis is meant to convey the inherent relationship between form and function in serving the specific needs of its patronage. The course is divided into four units with an in-class test after each unit of study. Tests consist of three sections and include factual slide identifications and short paragraph and essay writing. Each test is worth 80 points. The essay section of the tests is prompted by questions handed out at the beginning of each unit that serve to pull together and summarize the content of course readings. One essay assignment requires a trip to either of the two Indian temples in the area. In addition to the exams, there is a research paper assignment, 8-10 pages long, excluding bibliography and illustrations, that is worth 80 points. Students should expect to spend 9 hours per week on in-class and out of class work for the course.
