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Urban Renewal in Beijing, 2004.
Examines the renewal of the courtyard houses and hutongs in the old city of Beijing.
4,950 words (approx. 19.8 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 125.95
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Abstract
Compared to other historic capital cities (such as Rome, Paris or Istanbul) - whose existence is more the result of a natural evolution with the increase of population, economic wealth and political power - the unique characteristic of Beijing is that it is a "planned entity," reflecting Chinese philosophy and cosmology which ran through its 3000 years urban history. This paper examines the latest conservation plan of the Beijing municipal government (Plan 1991-2010), especially concerning the renewal and preservation of courtyard houses and hutongs.
Paper Outline:
Introduction
Main Features in the Design
Plans of Construction (or Destruction?) Planning Since 1949
The Courtyard Houses and Hutong - the Folk Culture of Beijing
Values for Preservation
Restraints in Preservation
The Invisible City
Ju'er Hutong Project
References
From the Paper
"The urban planning in China is rarely transparent to the public. In Beijing's case, with the residential area, public participation is one essential part in better designing for the renewal. To involve all the people who care about the place, who in fact are the place, guarantees a better understanding of what to preserve at all. Local Beijingers, having been living in the cultural political center of the nation, are informally active in public affairs. The old tea houses were always buzzing with discussions on current events, and today the alternative community managers (respected senior citizens) using simple tools (visiting each family, holding small meetings, notice boards spreading news in the Hutongs) can collect ideas easily."
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Frank Lloyd Wright, 2005.
A biography and description of Frank Lloyd Wright's architectural design in an age of modernism and age of pluralism.
1,470 words (approx. 5.9 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 48.95
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Abstract
This paper explains how Wright was a highly innovative influence on modern architecture. It examines how his designs were influenced by current day events as well as by his travels to Europe and Japan. In particular, it describes the Robie House, Prairie style homes, Taliesin, Imperial Hotel, Hollyhock House, Fallingwater, Marin County Civic Center, and Guggenheim Museum.
From the Paper
"In 1911, Wright moved to Wisconsin and built a home for himself and his mistress that he named Taliesin. In the architectural design for Taliesin, Wright included concepts from organic architecture. Organic architecture is a type of architecture that promotes harmony between man and nature through design. Organic architectural designs integrate the building and its furnishings into its surroundings. Wright accomplished this at Taliesin by constructing the chimneys and stone piers out of a local limestone which was laid by stonemasons in the house in a way that reflected the outcroppings of Wisconsin's landscape. Wright also used sand from the Wisconsin River in the house's stucco walls to bring to mind the river's sandbars."
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Comparing the Renaissance and Baroque Eras, 2006.
This paper explores and details items that may be found in a time capsule that reflect world events and cultural patterns from the Renaissance and Baroque eras.
1,079 words (approx. 4.3 pages), 6 sources, APA, $ 37.95
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Abstract
This paper examines the art and cultural developments during the Renaissance and Baroque eras. The writer of this paper describes articles that could be found in a time capsule from the Renaissance era as a rebirth of culture and a renewed interest in the ancient civilizations of Greece and Rome while explaining that the Baroque era grew from the Renaissance to promote an individualistic connection with God and spirituality as well as more appeal to emotions and drama. The items from art, music, architecture, philosophy and literature found in the time capsules are indicative of the events taking place during these two time periods.
From the Paper
"The Renaissance represents the time period between the Middle Ages and the Reformation - roughly the 14th century through the 15th century. Many historians view the Renaissance as a period of intellectual and artistic rebirth in which European culture thrived. The arts would likely be represented in the Renaissance time capsule by oil paintings on canvas or by sculpture. The work of artists such as Da Vinci who use shadow and light to portray three dimensions in their paintings are likely to be found in the time capsule. As such, we could expect to find Da Vinci's Mona Lisa painting. We may also find a sculpture by Michelango such as his famed David sculpture which represents beliefs during the Renaissance about beauty in the nude form being a reflection of God's power."
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Expressions of Humanities, 2006.
This paper examines and explains the various fields of humanities, including art, literature, architecture and philosophy and its effect on society.
1,070 words (approx. 4.3 pages), 9 sources, APA, $ 37.95
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Abstract
The author of this paper defines humanities as a group of academic disciplines that study the expression of human beings while making sense of the human experience. This paper explores how the different fields of humanities provide a way for individuals to study the expressions of humankind. From art to literature, academics have studied works in these areas to gain a better understanding and appreciation for the diversity of values and cultures represented.
From the Paper
"In the humanities field of art, current developments in politics, socioeconomics, and technology are represented. Throughout history, art has been an expression of the humankind experience and the values of society at that time. For example, Diego Rivera was a Mexican muralist painter during the 20th Century. When commissioned by the Rockefellers to paint a mural at the Rockefeller Center in New York in 1933 during the Great Depression, Rivera presented a mural of Lenin leading a demonstration of workers amidst a sea of red banners. The murals clear political statement resulted in the mural being destroyed by the Rockefellers. Earlier, Rivera had painted a mural for Henry Ford in Detroit that depicted factory workers in a plant."
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The Korean War and the Korean War Veterans' Memorial, 2005.
This paper discusses the forgotten war, the Korean War, and describes the Korean War Veterans' Memorial.
1,050 words (approx. 4.2 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 36.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that, although statistically the Korean War took more lives than the Vietnam War, the Korean War has been branded as America's "Forgotten War" because it was over-shined by two "greater" wars, the Second World War and the Vietnam War, which dragged on for more than a decade. The author points out that the Korean War is important because it (1) started the end of the communist expansion in the world, (2) laid the ground for the entry of democracy in the states in Eastern Europe and Russia and (3) began the American foreign policy of military intervention to gain or maintain security, freedom and democracy in the world resulting in a number of military conflicts which continues today. The paper describes in detail the Korean War Veterans' Memorial, adjacent to the Lincoln Memorial directly across the reflecting pool from the Vietnam Veterans' Memorial in Washington, D.C., which was dedicated in 1995 by Bill Clinton and Kim Young Sam, then presidents of the U.S. and South Korea.
From the Paper
"The symbolisms in the memorial are brilliant pictures of a war that will never be forgotten. For as long as the memorial continues to exist, the memories of a war, which advanced freedom at the cost of the lives of millions of people, will eternally be thought of and etched in the minds of guests. Moreover, this memorial also serves as a reminder that freedom, though sweet and liberating, must never be taken for granted and must certainly be forever guarded, secured and remain dear in our hearts. It must also be remembered that there are still countries in the world that do not enjoy the rights given by a true democracy. The pursuit for the expansion of democracy must certainly not be abandoned. Still, millions of people are yearning for a free, equal state where social, economic and political justice stands and endures."
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Organic Architecture, 2005.
Compares organic architecture to other contemporary forms of building.
2,270 words (approx. 9.1 pages), 9 sources, MLA, $ 70.95
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Abstract
This paper looks at the building techniques of Frank Lloyd Wright - his use of light, space, materials, location and general philosophy - and compares them to the techniques of other prominent architects.
From the Paper
"Architecture has historically played a central role in expressing and providing for human needs. It has been used as a means to glorify religion, display power, commemorate the loss of loved and distinguished individuals, and express radically progressive artistic concepts. More importantly, architecture's most elementary function also happens to be its most important, which is to provide humans with shelter."
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The Symbolism of Gothic Architecture, 2005.
An analysis of the development of Gothic architecture, considering symbolism, imagery and technical innovations.
1,970 words (approx. 7.9 pages), 5 sources, APA, $ 62.95
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Abstract
This paper begins with the symbolic spacial layout of Gothic architecture and relates it to medieval society in general. Also discussed is the cruciform shape of Gothic cathedrals and the symbolism of the cross. The paper also catalogues the main imagery found in Gothic churches and how it relates to the architecture, including windows and light symbolism. Finally, historical interpretations in churches are discussed such as the "New Jerusalem" and the "Garden of Paradise".
From the Paper
"Despite the romantic observations of Schlegel and Laugier, seeing a forest in the cathedral, Frankl again makes the sober comment that "as far as we know, the architect of Durham did not ask himself how he could give a vault the form of a tree-top, so that it should represent paradise: it was only after the Gothic style had logically developed within the terms of the 'law according to which it had been born' . . . that the house of God became vegetal in form." In an essay on the symbolism of Gothic architecture, it is important to point out, lest we get carried away, that technological innovations were the impetus for a good deal of what came to constitute the style as such. "
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Towards a New Urbanism, 2005.
This paper describes the evolution of modern architecture and presents an analysis of its benefits and loopholes.
3,958 words (approx. 15.8 pages), 12 sources, MLA, $ 107.95
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Abstract
This paper examines how modernist architecture became popular during the mid-twentieth century and how it was thought that its gleaming glass, steel and concrete buildings could help spread the faith that technology and planning could replace the slums with hygienic housing projects and create affluence for all. In contrast, it looks at how the New Urbanist movement is a tangible response to the failed modernist planning that has resulted in unchecked suburban sprawl, dependence on the automobile, and the abandonment and decay of cities.
From the Paper
"Although the New Urbanists claim that traditional towns and urban neighbourhoods are more conducive to developing community and provide more life choices than contemporary suburban living, their critics counter that the New Urbanist designs are artificial, elitist, and open the door to increased intervention by government. Regardless of which view one takes, the interdisciplinary nature of the New Urbanist project coupled with the fact that the movement raises important issues concerning the theological and ethical dimensions of market activity and human anthropology, makes Markets & Morality an ideal forum in which to explore further the possible promises and potential perils of the New Urbanism."
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Building the Great Wall, 2005.
An overview of the construction process of the Great Wall of China.
763 words (approx. 3.1 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 27.95
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Abstract
This paper examines the history behind the Great Wall of China and how the original construction of the wall was essentially nothing more than bricks, wood, grass and packed earth and how its simple structure changed very little over the next many centuries. It also discusses how
more than 2000 years after its construction, the Great Wall is still seen by the Chinese as not only an everlasting testament of the industriousness of its people, but also an overwhelming and almost mystical symbol.
From the Paper
"The Great Wall played a large part in all of the early dynasties of China, but its origin can be traced back to 221 B.C. After the western state of Qin subjugated and united seven states that had been at war since the 5th century, subsequently forming China, the ruler of Qin declared himself the first Emperor of China (Dalin 15). He gave himself the name Qin She Huangdi, which, conveniently enough, means 'First Emperor' in Chinese. One of Qin's first orders once in power was for all peasants, prisoners, and anyone else available to begin construction of a massive wall ("The Great Wall of China", screen 1). What would become the Great Wall was, in actuality, several very small already-standing fortification walls connected (Dalin 15). These smaller walls had been built by past dynasties, with the same reasons in mind as those that would years later prompt the erecting of the Great Wall."
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Georgian Towns in Britain Compared to Europe, 2005.
A comparison of British Georgian town design with contemporaneous European town development and a discussion of the reasons for the differences.
1,806 words (approx. 7.2 pages), 7 sources, MLA, $ 58.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the main reason why, in the early 1700s, British town planning seemed to diverge from that on the continent, even though a common heritage was present. The conclusion is a surprising amount of politics, national rivalry and religious differences that altered British building environment.
From the Paper
"Baroque design flourished on the continent between 1600 and 1750, particularly in Catholic countries. It tended to be expressive, flamboyant and encouraged by the Roman Catholic church (Hutchinson:2005). A Baroque designer would usually have had the support of a ruler and would therefore expect his development to be completed in its entirety, in contrast to events at the Royal Crescent in Bath, for example. The emergence of Baroque town planning in continental Europe is tied to the Renaissance, Reformation and subsequently the Counter-Reformation. Advances in science and the discovery of the New World provided the context for the creation of towns and cities that came to reflect the new wealth of the major European powers as well as the new cosmopolitanism of the ruling classes. "
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The Evolution of the Roman Theater, 2005.
The history and development of the architecture of the Roman theater building. An in-depth look at how the ancient Romans borrowed heavily from the Greek example, but improved upon it to create a building that was uniquely Roman.
2,698 words (approx. 10.8 pages), 7 sources, MLA, $ 80.95
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Abstract
The paper discusses in great detail the evolution of the Roman theater, beginning from the Greek wooden origins to the stone monuments that became iconic with Roman architecture during the Republic and the Empire. A brief history of theater is discussed in the beginning of the paper, with special attention given to the religious implications of how theaters were originally set up. The importance of the orchestra and "skene" are given historical background, dating back to early Dionysian worship. The layout of the early Greek theaters are discussed, with a complete layout included that describes the circular performance area, the seating arrangements, background adjustments and a rudimentary stage. The rest of the paper deals with how the Romans, eager to take the art of theater from being a religious practice to more of an entertainment value for the masses, incorporated their own unique designs to the Greek theater layout to create a more efficient and clearly Roman design. Heavy attention is give to Vitruvius and his work " De Architectura" which provides a step-by-step process in which Roman theaters were built. Improvements are discussed from eliminating the completely circular stage to a half-circle, as well as creating an official stage that persists in modern theatrical performances. The paper takes each part of the theater and discusses the area extensively in terms of what the Romans did to improve upon or change from the early Greek models.
From the Paper
"Ancient Rome's concept of art and architecture was heavily influenced by the cultures that the Romans had conquered, but were in no way identical copies of the art that existed in those subjugated areas. The Romans excelled at taking artistic ideas from other civilizations and molding them into a form that could undoubtedly be identified as uniquely Roman. This technique can easily be seen in practice when one examines the Roman theater building. Roman theaters can be found throughout the area that used to be the Roman Empire, with remnants of theaters all over Europe and the Mediterranean. These theaters have details and building techniques that are exclusive to Roman designs, but when they are viewed in comparison with ancient Greek theaters, one can clearly see where the Romans received their inspiration."
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Roman Pantheon, 2005.
An historical and architectural overview of the Roman Pantheon, focusing on the builders, the techniques, and the scientific and mathematical symmetry of the building.
2,823 words (approx. 11.3 pages), 7 sources, MLA, $ 84.95
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Abstract
This paper tracks the origins of the Roman Pantheon from its conception in antiquity to modern-day times. It describes its purpose and functions, changes in architectural structure, and its unique building techniques. The latter part of the paper describes its novel uses throughout time in mathematical and scientific innovations.
From the Paper
"The period of antiquity now viewed as Ancient Rome was privy to a plethora of building construction. The glory of the Forum, the vastness of the Coloseum, and the intricacies of the Baths of Caracalla are now considered marvel relics, but all pale in comparison to the architectural wonder of the Pantheon. The building brings together the grandeur of the world and the wonder of the cosmos; adhering the two in a cutting edge and unique manner. The stately and overbearing monument has undergone many transformations through antiquity, often changing both shape and function. The function of the Pantheon is still a source of current debate among scholars, with arguments ranging from a temple to Augustus to an intricate sundial. While the controversy might never come to a conclusion, the exact scientific and mathematical precision of the Pantheon illustrates the intention of the building as a feat of engineering."
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