Architecture and Space in Chinese Culture (GE1125)

Introduction

Buildings and space are where we live, study, entertain and work daily. To understand a bit more about architecture and space, it will be helpful to appreciate the culture of a society. Architect Liang Ssu-ch'eng once said: "Chinese architecture is as old as Chinese civilization." Do you aware that pyramids also exist in China? How did people settle down in wild nature during pre-historic age? Why had the Chinese built the Great Wall for 2,000 years continuously? What is the urban axis of Beijing? Why are Buddhist monastery and royal palace so similar in many ways? What kind of rites and rituals took place in temple and ancestor hall? How did mausoleum and tomb lead the death to immortality? Why did Chinese people make home in courtyard house? Where is the paradise? If you are curious about those questions, you will find answers in this course.

Architecture and Space in Chinese Culture’ is a course that introduces students to discover different forms, functions and expressions of buildings and spaces in Chinese culture and society from various perspectives. Students will read literal texts, view architectural drawings and images, observe antique objects and artifacts, and look at visual art in order to analyze buildings and spaces. Through field study, group project and critical writings, students will interact with the actual built environment, and reflect on the relationship between architecture, society and culture.

Teaching Staff：

Instructor: LI Lin

Medium of Instruction: Cantonese/ Putonghua; English