Classical Architecture

Classicism is not a style; it is the philosophy of free will nurtured by tradition. In a series of tightly argued essays, the author discusses the role of imitation, tectonics, ornament and originality in architecture, showing that the classical is that which speaks of tradition always in a modern voice. In the first chapter the author examines the theory of imitation, the position it occupies in classical thought and the way by which it can be shown that imitation is at the core of both traditional and modernist art. The second chapter is devoted to the significance of tectonics in architecture. The third chapter examines the relations between building and architecture and the way in which we may say that “classicism is not a style.” The fourth chapter studies classical ornament and the role it plays in architecture. The fifth chapter addresses the principles of the traditional city and makes the claim for revitalising common sense. Finally, in the sixth chapter, the author looks at what tradition really means and how it relates to modernity. The book also features an extensive appendix that makes accessible to readers excerpts from some of the most important classical texts relating to architecture.