History of Science 2008

Introduction

Introduction         Pyramid of Djoser         Abbey of Montecassino         The Suleymaniye Mosque        Conclusion

Architecture Throughout History - A Three Part Exhibit


    There are so few things that stand the test of time. Ideas, thoughts, and even legends are among the few that actually do last. However, even these are subject to change based on each individual’s interpretation on the subject matter or story at hand. It is obvious that nothing can fully withstand the changes that always accompany time. However, I would argue that some things are more able than others to last longer, given the right circumstances. Architecture projects from cultures throughout history have left behind a trail of mystery. Some building projects remain erect, such as the Great Pyramid, but have shown wear and tear from the elements. Some buildings have not lasted, but those that have tell a story about the people who designed and built these amazing structures.
   
    I desire to see first hand many of the constructions from the past that still stand today. I have set upon the mighty building blocks of the Great Pyramid and ventured into the depths of its tunnels. I have also leaned against the Western wall, and stood above the walls of the old city of Jericho in Israel. Seeing these places has only increased my hunger for more knowledge about other amazing constructions that have taken place hundreds of years ago. To know why these civilizations so long ago constructed these marvelous things is what we will be in search of. We will try to grasp the reason, logic, and science behind how the projects where actually completed. Finally, we will try to understand the beauty that these places hold.
 
    As we learn about these distant civilizations, I desire for you to become more intrigued by the people who were in charge and responsible for some of the greatest structures in the world. I hope that you will strive to take the perspective of an individual from the time period that we will be studying and adjust all your thoughts and notions to that of your new perspective. This will give you a better idea of why they believed certain things, acted in certain ways, and developed techniques to accomplish their goals.
  
    As we embark on our journey through time, we will first begin studying the mighty Egyptian Pyramids, from the Ancient time period. The step Pyramid is the oldest man made structure still standing to this day. We will learn who wanted it to be built, why they wanted it to be built, as well as who designed this building to stand for nearly five thousand years. We will then move on to the Middle Ages to investigate some of the architecture surrounding the Benedictine people. One place of interest that we will look at will be the Abbey of Montecassino in Italy. Finally, we will end our journey by looking into the buildings of the Ottoman Empire, commonly known as the Turks. Many of their great mosques, such as the Suleymaniye Mosque, were marvelous pieces of art. We will try to discover some of the major influences and reasons for the construction of these great structures.



Picture:

The Present Day Montecassino Abbey Rebuilt.  Accessed on 6 November 2008.  Originally located at Wikipedia Images.



Introduction         Pyramid of Djoser         Abbey of Montecassino         The Suleymaniye Mosque        Conclusion



Created By: Tyler Smith
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