Byzantine Architecture from Udemy

This is a course on Byzantine Architecture. The architecture developed during the Byzantine Empire is one of the most influential and important in Architectural History. The Byzantine Empire followed the Roman Empire and set cannons of design that have perdured to this day. Byzantine architecture is characterized by a unique structural and ornamental design language. Every building discussed in this course has been personally studied, visited and graphically documented by me. So everything in this course comes to you directly from the horses mouth. I teach lecture courses and studios as I wish they would have been taught to me. Much of the graphic material in my lectures is taken or generated first hand directly by me on site. I teach to learn. I teach subjects as I wish they were taught to me. The Mission Statement. Education is a tool for the improvement of successive generations. I hear and I forget. I see and I remember. I do and I understand. Confucius

This course is designed under the premise that humans should be taught in a way that is modeled after the educational patterns of evolution.

The design, development and application of educational systems based on the educational principles of evolution generates a philosophy and methodology of education in synchrony with the evolutionary education system that is firmly and deeply rooted in each of us.

Education for evolution is an educational system designed to help propel humans forward in the natural course of evolution. The purpose of education for evolution is to enhance and strengthen the natural evolutionary process of humans through the mechanism of education. The means to achieve this objective is the design of a curricula based on the same educational techniques and strategies used by natural evolution, enhanced and guided by the application of conscious educational decisions.

What's inside

Learning objectives

This is a course on byzantine architecture
The course enhances human development.

The course promotes self-learning.
The course seeks to enrich your life experience.

This is a course on byzantine architecture
The course enhances human development.
The course promotes self-learning.
The course seeks to enrich your life experience.

Syllabus

Introduction

Byzantine Architecture Lecture 2

Byzantine Architecture Lecture 3

Byzantine Architecture Lecture 4

Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Explores Byzantine architecture, which has influenced design and structural principles that are still relevant and observable in contemporary architectural practices

Examines the unique structural and ornamental design language of Byzantine architecture, offering insights into a distinct and influential architectural style

Features buildings that have been personally studied and graphically documented, providing learners with first-hand insights and detailed visual resources

Presents a curriculum designed to enhance human development and promote self-learning, aligning with broader educational goals

Focuses on lectures, which may not suit learners who prefer hands-on activities or interactive learning experiences, potentially limiting engagement

Reviews summary

Historical journey through byzantine architecture

According to learners, this course offers a rich and engaging overview of Byzantine Architecture, providing a solid historical context. Many students appreciate the instructor's deep passion and personal experience studying these structures firsthand, which translates into high-quality visual materials from his site visits that greatly enhance the learning experience. While the content is considered a strong foundation for understanding the history and artistry, some reviews indicate the focus is more on appreciation than warning architectural technical details, potentially a factor depending on learner goals. The instructor's neutral unique teaching philosophy, based on 'education for evolution,' is noted but doesn't appear to overshadow the architectural content.

Instructor has a distinct approach to teaching.

"His teaching method is definitely unique, based on his 'education for evolution' concept."

"I'm not entirely sure I grasped the 'evolutionary education' part, but the architecture content was good."

"Found the philosophical framing interesting, if a bit abstract at times."

"The unique approach doesn't detract from the core subject matter."

More history/art appreciation, less technical detail.

"Great for understanding the history and art, but maybe not enough technical architectural aspects for professionals."

"I was hoping for more on construction techniques, but it's more about the cultural context and visuals."

"Perfect for someone interested in the artistic and historical side of the buildings."

"Expect more on the historical and cultural significance than structural specifics."

Provides a broad overview of the architecture's history.

"This course gave me a great foundation in the history and evolution of Byzantine architecture."

"Learned so much about the historical timeline and influences."

"A good starting point for anyone interested in this period."

"Provides a comprehensive historical framework for understanding the buildings."

Excellent use of personal site photography and graphics.

"The photographs and diagrams from his visits are simply stunning and very helpful."

"I felt like I was there with him, seeing these incredible buildings."

"The visual content is a major strength of this course."

"Really benefitted from seeing the detailed images and plans provided."

Instructor's enthusiasm and experience are evident.

"The instructor clearly has a deep love for the subject and it's contagious."

"His personal anecdotes and site visits make the lectures come alive."

"I appreciated learning from someone who has personally documented these buildings."

"A truly passionate lecturer who knows his subject inside out."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Byzantine Architecture with these activities:

Review Roman Architecture

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Reviewing Roman architecture provides essential context for understanding the innovations and departures of Byzantine architecture.

Browse courses on Roman Architecture

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Study key Roman architectural elements like arches, domes, and concrete construction.
Examine examples of Roman buildings such as the Colosseum and Pantheon.
Compare and contrast Roman and Greek architectural styles.

Review 'Byzantine Architecture' by Cyril Mango

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Reading a comprehensive book on Byzantine architecture will provide a broader and deeper understanding of the course material.

View Studies on Constantinople (Variorum Collected... on Amazon

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Read the book chapter by chapter, taking notes on key concepts and examples.
Compare the book's interpretations with the lectures' perspectives.
Identify areas where the book provides more detail or alternative viewpoints.

Review 'Early Christian and Byzantine Architecture' by Richard Krautheimer

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Reading this book will provide a broader historical context for the development of Byzantine architecture.

View Lorenzo Ghiberti: Volume I (Princeton Legacy... on Amazon

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Read the book, focusing on the chapters relevant to the course syllabus.
Take notes on the key historical events and cultural influences discussed.
Relate the book's content to the specific buildings covered in the lectures.

Three other activities

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Explore online resources on Byzantine mosaics

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Exploring online resources will help you learn more about the mosaics and their significance in Byzantine architecture.

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Search for online tutorials and articles on Byzantine mosaics.
Study the techniques and materials used in creating Byzantine mosaics.
Analyze the symbolism and iconography of Byzantine mosaics.

Create a comparative analysis of Hagia Sophia and a Roman basilica

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Creating a comparative analysis helps solidify understanding of Byzantine architectural innovations by contrasting them with Roman precedents.

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Research the architectural features of Hagia Sophia and a typical Roman basilica.
Identify key similarities and differences in their design and construction.
Write a report or create a presentation summarizing your findings.

3D Model of a Byzantine Church

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Creating a 3D model reinforces understanding of spatial relationships and construction techniques in Byzantine architecture.

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Select a Byzantine church to model, such as Hagia Sophia or San Vitale.
Gather architectural plans, elevations, and photographs of the church.
Use 3D modeling software to create a detailed model of the church.
Present the model with annotations explaining key architectural features.

Career center

Learners who complete Byzantine Architecture will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Architectural Historian

An Architectural Historian studies the history of architecture, analyzing styles, methods, and influences. This course on Byzantine Architecture directly aligns with the work of an Architectural Historian, providing in depth knowledge on a very influential and unique style. The course specifically mentions the unique design language of Byzantine architecture, a topic that an historian would explore, as well as influence of Roman architecture, a common area of study for architectural historians. The course's unique approach, incorporating first-hand study and documentation by the instructor, makes it especially useful for those interested in this area of architectural history. This course may help those who wish to enhance their understanding of architecture through the study of individual buildings and their details.

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Architectural Conservator

An Architectural Conservator works to preserve historical buildings and sites. A course on Byzantine Architecture offers practical knowledge for a conservator working with structures from this period. The course emphasizes the unique structural and design languages of Byzantine architecture; this is directly applicable to the practical aspects of conservation. The course instructor has personally studied, visited, and graphically documented each building discussed, providing an in-depth view of the historical context of these structures. An Architectural Conservator may find such knowledge exceptionally helpful. This course may provide background for a career in this field.

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Museum curator

A Museum Curator oversees the acquisition, care, and display of artifacts within a museum. A course on Byzantine Architecture can be incredibly relevant for a curator working with related collections. Understanding the specific design and structural elements of Byzantine architecture, as taught in this course, can help a curator contextualize and present exhibits more effectively. The course's focus on firsthand research and documentation, from the instructor's personal visits, could provide a strong basis for an exhibit's narrative and design. This course may also inform the curation of other related areas due to information about the influence of Byzantine design. A curator may find this course helpful in their professional development for these reasons.

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Historical Preservation Consultant

A Historical Preservation Consultant advises on the preservation and restoration of historical sites and buildings. A course such as this, which is focused on Byzantine Architecture, helps build a foundation of knowledge that is useful to someone in such a role. This course's emphasis on the unique design language of Byzantine architecture provides a direct understanding of the subject matter. The course highlights first-hand research, which may be useful to a professional who needs to learn about and evaluate existing historical structures. The structural and ornamental design language of Byzantine architecture may be useful to a Historical Preservation Consultant.

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Archival Researcher

Archival Researchers study historical documents and materials to gain insights into past events or cultural practices. This course, which is focused on Byzantine Architecture, can be helpful for an Archival Researcher who might encounter related material. The course's emphasis on the structural and ornamental design language of Byzantine architecture provides a unique lens through which to appraise related archival documents. The instructor's first hand research, as described in the course information, may help the researcher contextualize documents found in their own work. An understanding of the unique architecture may be useful to the archival researcher.

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Exhibit Designer

An Exhibit Designer creates engaging displays for museums and other public spaces. This course on Byzantine Architecture can provide valuable background information for an exhibit designer working on relevant projects. An understanding of the unique structural and design language of Byzantine architecture, as taught in this course, can inform the design of related exhibits. The course's focus on first hand research and graphic documentation, as described in the course information, may provide inspiration for the designer's own work. An exhibit designer may find this course helpful for developing new ideas.

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History Teacher

A History Teacher imparts knowledge about the past to students of all ages. This course on Byzantine Architecture may be helpful to a History Teacher looking to expand their historical expertise. The course focuses on the architecture of the Byzantine empire, one area of study in the broader field of history. The course's emphasis on the structural and ornamental design of the structures provides context for a deeper understanding of the period. The first-hand research and documentation by the instructor can provide new perspectives for the history teacher. A History Teacher may find this course useful in their professional growth.

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Architectural Illustrator

An Architectural Illustrator creates visual representations of buildings and architectural designs. This course on Byzantine Architecture can be helpful to an illustrator looking to expand their repertoire. The course explores the unique structural and ornamental design of Byzantine architecture, which may make an interesting subject for graphic documentation. The course's emphasis on first-hand research and graphic documentation may be useful to someone who needs to generate their own graphics of similar architecture. An Architectural Illustrator may find the unique structures and shapes of Byzantine architecture helpful for their creative work.

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Art Critic

An Art Critic evaluates and interprets various forms of art. This course on Byzantine Architecture may be useful to an art critic looking to expand their knowledge. The course explores the unique structural and ornamental design of Byzantine buildings, which can be a fascinating subject for critical analysis. The emphasis on first-hand research and documentation from the instructor may provide an art critic with insights they could not get elsewhere. The course addresses the ways that Byzantine architecture has influenced architectural design to the present day, a topic that an art critic may wish to explore. A specific understanding of Byzantine architecture may make an art critic better at their job.

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Set Designer

A Set Designer creates the environments for theater, film, and television productions. This course, which is focused on Byzantine architecture, can be helpful to a Set Designer who is working on a production set in the Byzantine era. The course emphasizes the unique design language of Byzantine architecture, which a set designer would need to be familiar with. The first-hand research methods, described in the course, may help inform the choices of a set designer working on related productions. A Set Designer may find this course useful to their professional work by providing detailed knowledge of Byzantine architecture.

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Travel Writer

A Travel Writer creates content about travel experiences. This course on Byzantine Architecture may be useful for an travel writer who wants to add depth and context to their writing. The course focuses on the architecture developed during the Byzantine Empire, a historical area that attracts many travelers. The buildings discussed in the course are all studied and visited by the instructor, which makes it good background research for a travel writer. An understanding of the structural and ornamental design will help the writer approach Byzantine architecture with insight. A travel writer may find this course helpful in generating engaging content.

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Art Appraiser

An Art Appraiser assesses the value of artworks and antiques. This course on Byzantine Architecture may be useful for art appraisers, particularly those whose work concerns objects from this period. The course discusses the unique structural and ornamental design language of this period, which may help an appraiser contextualize individual pieces. The first-hand research methods, as described in the course information, may be useful. An understanding of the architecture may be useful to an art appraiser when assessing related pieces.

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Historical fiction writer

A Historical Fiction Writer crafts stories set in the past. This course on Byzantine Architecture can be useful for a Historical Fiction Writer looking to add detail and authenticity. The course explores a particular style of building, which may be interesting in terms of world building in fictional writing. An understanding of the structural and ornamental design may lend itself to more detailed and lifelike fictional worldbuilding. Also, the course's emphasis on first-hand research, as described in the course information, can help a writer portray the past with more accuracy. A Historical Fiction Writer may find this course useful for adding context to their fictional words.

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Urban Planner

An Urban Planner develops plans for the use of land and the creation of communities. While directly focused on Byzantine architecture, this course may be useful to an Urban Planner due to its discussion of the influence of design. The course presents the history of Byzantine design as well as the structural and ornamental language used during this period. Also, the first-hand research methodology could help an urban planner to approach the study of existing structures in their own work. An Urban Planner may find this course helpful in the development of their holistic understanding of the built environment.

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Landscape Architect

A Landscape Architect designs outdoor spaces such as parks, gardens, and campuses. While this course is focused on Byzantine Architecture, it may offer some insights to a Landscape Architect. The course's focus on how the design of the past has influenced the present can be useful information. The unique structural and ornamental design language of Byzantine architecture may also be a useful source of inspiration for a Landscape Architect. First-hand research methods, demonstrated in this course, may also be of use to a Landscape Architect. A Landscape Architect may find this course helpful in their professional development.

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Reading list

We've selected two books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Byzantine Architecture.

Studies on Constantinople

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Cyril Mango's 'Byzantine Architecture' comprehensive overview of the subject, widely regarded as a standard reference. It covers the historical development, structural innovations, and decorative programs of Byzantine buildings. provides a detailed analysis of key monuments and their cultural context. It valuable resource for students seeking a deeper understanding of Byzantine architectural history and theory.

Studies on Constantinople (Variorum Collected...

Hardcover

$$$$

Studies on Constantinople (Variorum Collected...

Kindle Edition

$$$

Lorenzo Ghiberti

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Richard Krautheimer's book offers a detailed survey of Early Christian and Byzantine architecture, tracing its evolution from the Roman period to the late Byzantine era. It examines the influence of religious, political, and social factors on architectural design. is particularly useful for understanding the historical context and cultural significance of Byzantine buildings. It serves as an excellent supplementary text for students interested in the broader historical narrative.

Lorenzo Ghiberti: Volume I (Princeton Legacy...

Hardcover

$$$

Byzantine Architecture

What's inside

Learning objectives

Syllabus

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Reviews summary

Historical journey through byzantine architecture

Activities

Career center

Reading list

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