Architecture of East Asia

This course explores a diverse range of architecture in China, Japan, and Korea from ancient to contemporary times. We will investigate the major architectural types in East Asia--including cities, temples, palaces, gardens, and houses--as well as individual monuments, such as Japan's Himeji Castle and the "Bird's Nest" Olympic stadium in Beijing. In addition to examining the architectural histories of these sites, we will discuss thematic uses related to design, space, landscape, ritual, memory, and modernity. Students will also develop a deepened understanding of one aspect of East Asian architectural history through an in-depth research project on a well-conceived topic.