Ancient Greek Architects at Work: Problems of Structure and Design

J. J. Coulton

ISBN 10: 0801492343 / ISBN 13: 9780801492341

Published by Cornell University Press, 1982

About this Item

Seller Inventory # ABE-1714578794578

Bibliographic Details

Title: Ancient Greek Architects at Work: Problems ...

Publisher: Cornell University Press

Publication Date: 1982

Binding: Soft cover

Condition: Fine

Edition: 1st Edition

About this title

Synopsis:

Taking an unusual approach to his subject, J. J. Coulton examines ancient Greek architecture from the point of view of the practicing architects. He discusses their ideas and technical achievements from the early seventh century B.C. to the first century B.C.

Drawing on surviving written evidence from antiquity as well as on the evidence of the buildings themselves, Mr. Coulton provides answers to such questions as: What must it have been like to build a Greek temple? Who did the building? What training was required? How did the Greeks begin? What problems did they face?

The first chapter considers the relations of architects to patrons and clients and the role of architects in ancient society generally. Subsequent chapters explore a series of architectural problems and their solutions. In his final chapter Mr. Coulton assesses the architects' techniques and their contributions to structural design, evaluating their theoretical knowledge of mechanics and their practical understanding of structural concepts. Generously illustrated and lucidly written, this volume will appeal to all who are interested in architecture, architectural history, and archaeology.

About the Author:

J. J. Coulton has excavated in Jordan, Iran, and Greece. He teaches in the Department of Classical Archaeology at the University of Edinburgh.