OpenCourser brand icon
Sign in
We may earn an affiliate commission when you visit our partners.

Greek Architecture

4.2 Filled star Filled star Filled star Filled star Empty star
Based on 18 ratings
see reviews
Federico von Borstel

This is a course on Ancient Greek Architecture. We start by going back as far as possible to observe the origins of Greek architecture followed by the study of the residential architecture of the Ancient Greeks. We travel to the islands of Crete and Thera to study Minoan architecture, followed by Mycenean Architecture including Troy. Next, we study and examine the Greek Temples, followed by the Theaters, the Agora and the Pnyx, the beginnings of democracy. I have spent a lifetime studying, researching and enjoying Greek Architecture and Art. Everything you see here is the product of direct personal experience and study at the sites of origin. 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

Read more

This is a course on Ancient Greek Architecture. We start by going back as far as possible to observe the origins of Greek architecture followed by the study of the residential architecture of the Ancient Greeks. We travel to the islands of Crete and Thera to study Minoan architecture, followed by Mycenean Architecture including Troy. Next, we study and examine the Greek Temples, followed by the Theaters, the Agora and the Pnyx, the beginnings of democracy. I have spent a lifetime studying, researching and enjoying Greek Architecture and Art. Everything you see here is the product of direct personal experience and study at the sites of origin. 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.

Enroll now

What's inside

Learning objectives

  • At the end of this course students wil have developed an understanding and appreciation of ancient greek architecture.
  • The course enhances human development.
  • The course promotes self-learning.
  • The course seeks to enrich your life experience.

Syllabus

Introduction
Greek Architecture Lecture 2
Greek Architecture Lecture 3
Greek Architecture Lecture 4
Read more

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Examines Minoan and Mycenean architecture, including Troy, which provides a comprehensive overview of early Greek architectural influences
Explores Greek temples, theaters, the Agora, and the Pnyx, offering insights into the architectural elements of ancient Greek society
Includes graphic material taken or generated firsthand at the sites of origin, enhancing the learning experience with authentic visuals
Covers the origins of Greek architecture and residential architecture, providing a foundational understanding of the subject
Seeks to enrich your life experience, suggesting a broader appeal beyond purely academic or professional interests
Promotes self-learning, which may require learners to take initiative in their studies and research

Save this course

Create your own learning path. Save this course to your list so you can find it easily later.
Save

Reviews summary

Journey through ancient greek architecture

According to learners, this course offers a largely positive experience, particularly for those new to the subject. Students highlight the instructor's clear passion and extensive knowledge, often backed by first-hand experience at historical sites. The visual material, featuring original photographs, is frequently praised as a major strength that enhances understanding. Some learners found the course to be a great introduction providing a solid foundation. However, a few mention that the course is primarily lecture-based with limited interactive elements and may not delve into the depth required for advanced learners. Despite some minor technical issues potentially noted in older reviews, the overall sentiment suggests a valuable and enriching learning journey.
Course is primarily delivered via lectures.
"The course is delivered mostly through lectures."
"It is a very passive learning experience centered around watching videos."
"Would have appreciated some quizzes or assignments to reinforce learning."
Provides a solid foundation for beginners.
"A great overview for beginners interested in the topic."
"Provides a solid foundation in the key periods and structures."
"The course covers the fundamentals well and makes the subject accessible."
Excellent photos from actual sites.
"The photographs from the locations are stunning and greatly enhance the learning experience."
"Seeing actual images from the sites brought the architecture to life for me."
"The visual material generated firsthand by the instructor is a major strength."
Instructor's deep knowledge and passion shine.
"The instructor is clearly passionate and deeply knowledgeable about the subject matter."
"His enthusiasm for Greek architecture is infectious and makes the lectures engaging."
"You can tell the instructor has spent a lifetime studying these sites firsthand."
May be too basic for advanced learners.
"While great for an introduction, it doesn't go into deep detail on complex topics."
"If you already have some background, parts may feel a bit basic."
"I felt it provided a good overview, but I need to supplement it for deeper understanding."

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 Greek Architecture with these activities:
Review 'Greek Architecture' by Robert Scranton
Provide a solid foundation in the history and key concepts of Greek architecture before starting the course.
View Greek Architecture. on Amazon
Show steps
  • Obtain a copy of 'Greek Architecture' by Robert Scranton.
  • Read the introductory chapters covering the historical context.
  • Take notes on key architectural terms and concepts.
Follow tutorials on Greek column styles
Improve understanding of Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian columns by following online tutorials.
Show steps
  • Search for online tutorials on Greek column styles.
  • Follow the tutorials to learn about the characteristics of each style.
  • Practice drawing or sketching each column style.
Review 'A Handbook of Greek Art' by Gisela Richter
Gain a broader understanding of the artistic context surrounding Greek architecture.
View Melania on Amazon
Show steps
  • Acquire a copy of 'A Handbook of Greek Art' by Gisela Richter.
  • Focus on chapters related to sculpture and architectural decoration.
  • Note the connections between art and architectural design.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Compile a glossary of Greek architectural terms
Reinforce understanding of key architectural terms by creating a comprehensive glossary.
Show steps
  • Identify key architectural terms from course materials.
  • Research the definitions and origins of each term.
  • Compile the terms and definitions into a glossary.
Research and present on a specific Greek architectural site
Deepen knowledge of Greek architecture by focusing on a specific site and presenting findings.
Show steps
  • Choose a Greek architectural site (e.g., Delphi, Olympia).
  • Research the history, architecture, and significance of the site.
  • Prepare a presentation with images and information about the site.
Create a comparative analysis of Greek temple designs
Deepen understanding of Greek temple architecture by comparing and contrasting different designs and their historical context.
Show steps
  • Select three different Greek temples to compare.
  • Research the historical context and design features of each temple.
  • Write a report comparing and contrasting the temples, including diagrams.
3D Model of the Parthenon
Solidify understanding of the Parthenon's structure and design by creating a 3D model.
Show steps
  • Research the dimensions and architectural details of the Parthenon.
  • Choose a 3D modeling software (e.g., SketchUp, Blender).
  • Create a 3D model of the Parthenon, paying attention to accuracy.
  • Add textures and details to enhance the model's realism.

Career center

Learners who complete Greek Architecture will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Architectural Historian
An Architectural Historian studies buildings and other structures to understand their history and significance. This course on Greek Architecture is a perfect starting point for understanding the roots of Western architectural tradition. The course's focus on direct, personal experience at sites of origin aligns with the research and investigative nature of historical study. The course's detailed examination of Greek temples, theaters, and other structures helps build a strong foundation of knowledge for a future architectural historian. Furthermore, this course provides an understanding of the evolution of architectural forms, a perspective helpful to any architectural historian.
See salaries and explore the career path for Architectural Historian
Archaeologist
An Archaeologist studies past human life and activities by excavating and analyzing material remains, including architecture. This course enhances the practical understanding of Greek architectural styles and their context. The detailed analysis of Minoan and Mycenaean architecture, including Troy, equips an aspiring archaeologist with a crucial historical foundation. The course’s emphasis on direct personal experience at architectural sites aligns with the hands-on nature of archaeology fieldwork, which would be very useful for any archaeologist. Furthermore, first-hand understanding of Greek theaters and the agora, as well as the overall evolution of Greek architecture, provides invaluable background knowledge.
See salaries and explore the career path for Archaeologist
Academic Researcher
An Academic Researcher undertakes investigations and studies within a specific area of academic interest. For someone interested in Greek architecture, this course provides an excellent foundation. The course's exploration of Greek architecture, from its origins through the Mycenaean period, and including the evolution of temples, theaters, and agoras, may help inspire research questions. The focus on direct experience and site-specific research encourages a hands-on approach to academic investigation for any academic researcher. The course's dedication to understanding learning, especially through evolution, is an example of research done well.
See salaries and explore the career path for Academic Researcher
University Professor
A University Professor engages in teaching, research, and scholarly publication within a specific academic discipline. This course on Greek Architecture, with its detailed study and emphasis on personal, on-site experience, models the kind of dedicated scholarship essential for a professor in this field. The course's detailed examination of Greek architectural types, from temples to the agora, equips a professor with insights in teaching. The approach of the course, presenting information as the instructor wished it had been taught to them, provides an example for others who want to design educational materials. Anyone who would be a professor in this field should understand how the instructor has applied their method of education.
See salaries and explore the career path for University Professor
Art historian
An Art Historian researches and analyzes the historical and cultural context of artworks, including architecture. This course on Greek Architecture is helpful for understanding a significant part of art history. The course covers Greek architectural origins, and its evolution through the Minoan and Mycenaean periods, and also extends to the agora and the pnyx all of which will be informative for an art historian. This course is extremely helpful for a future art historian, especially those focused on classical art. The direct experience at the sites of origin, which is a key part of the course, builds an understanding that an art historian would need.
See salaries and explore the career path for Art historian
Historical Preservation Specialist
A Historical Preservation Specialist focuses on the maintenance and conservation of historic sites and buildings. The study of Greek architecture in this course is helpful for understanding the specific construction and architectural conventions of ancient Greek structures. The course's exploration of Greek temples, theaters, and residential areas provides a crucial background for any preservation specialist. The on-site, personal experience and research aspect of the course offers a unique advantage for anyone working hands-on in this field. A historical preservation specialist should be aware of the architectural details taught in this course.
See salaries and explore the career path for Historical Preservation Specialist
Cultural Heritage Manager
A Cultural Heritage Manager works to protect and promote cultural sites, including those of architectural significance. This course on Greek Architecture is a good source of information for managing such sites. The course’s exploration of Greek temples, theaters, and other architectural forms provides a background and historical understanding critical to the preservation and management of these sites. This course could assist a cultural heritage manager. The course’s emphasis on direct personal experience at the sites of origin provides an understanding of these places that a cultural heritage manager could apply in their work. Knowledge of Greek Architecture is valuable when managing these sites.
See salaries and explore the career path for Cultural Heritage Manager
Museum curator
A Museum Curator is responsible for the acquisition, care, and display of artifacts and artworks within a museum, including architectural elements. This course may be useful for aspiring curators who specialize in ancient architecture. The course’s focus on the origins and evolution of Greek architecture and its emphasis on on-site experience provides valuable insights into the authentic context of these historical structures. Understanding the specificities of Greek temples, theaters, and residential architecture allows a curator to present them accurately and meaningfully to the public. Furthermore, personal experience and site-specific research provided by the course will assist a museum curator.
See salaries and explore the career path for Museum curator
Historical Consultant
A Historical Consultant provides expertise on historical matters to various clients, including media productions, museums, and educational institutions. This course on Greek architecture may be helpful as it provides a thorough examination of the subject matter. The course's focus on the origins and evolution of Greek architecture and its emphasis on hands-on experience, lends itself to expertise in this area. The course’s study of Greek temples, theaters, and residential spaces provides a solid base of knowledge for a historical consultant. Furthermore, the course's on-site experience and research provides a useful foundation for anyone needing to advise on the subject.
See salaries and explore the career path for Historical Consultant
Tour Guide
A Tour Guide provides information and guidance to visitors at historical and cultural sites. This course on Greek Architecture would be helpful in preparing tour guides who specialize in ancient Greek history and sites. The course covers the origins and evolution of Greek Architecture, providing many of the narrative details that make for a great tour guide. Knowledge of Minoan and Mycenaean architecture, along with Greek temples, theaters, and the agora, will equip a tour guide with insightful information for engaging and educating tourists. A tour guide who understands and appreciates the material is the best kind of tour guide, and this course will provide that kind appreciation. The course's emphasis on first-hand experience at sites of origin further lends to the credibility and passion of a tour guide.
See salaries and explore the career path for Tour Guide
Architectural Conservator
An Architectural Conservator works to preserve and restore historic buildings, including those of Greek origin. This course on Greek Architecture may be useful as it provides an understanding of the materials, techniques, and design principles used to construct ancient Greek structures. The course provides a solid base for aspiring conservators. By understanding the original context and construction of these structures, a conservator can make informed decisions about their preservation and restoration. The course's emphasis on on-site study and direct experience is also highly relevant to a conservator's work. This means this course may be essential to a future Architectural Conservator
See salaries and explore the career path for Architectural Conservator
Curriculum Developer
A Curriculum Developer designs and develops educational materials and programs for various educational settings. This course on Greek Architecture may be helpful for someone who wants to develop curriculum related to ancient civilizations or architectural history. The course's emphasis on an educational system modeled after the educational patterns of evolution provides a unique perspective for a curriculum developer to apply. The course's methodology and approach to teaching could inform the work of a curriculum developer. A course like this provides an example of how to teach difficult and complex material.
See salaries and explore the career path for Curriculum Developer
Exhibition Designer
An Exhibition Designer creates engaging and informative environments for displaying artifacts and information within museum and other exhibit spaces. This course related to Greek Architecture may be useful for an aspiring exhibition designer. The course’s content will aid those who wish to design exhibits related to Greek culture or architecture. The emphasis on the significance of on-site experience allows an exhibition designer to convey the emotional and physical qualities of a space. Studying the evolution of Greek architecture and its various forms is also important, and would help an exhibition designer present the material in its original context.
See salaries and explore the career path for Exhibition Designer
Urban Planner
An Urban Planner develops plans and policies for the growth and development of cities and regions, often considering historical contexts. This course may be useful for understanding the ancient urban planning of Greek cities. The course's exploration of Greek residential architecture, the agora, and the pnyx can provide valuable insights into how ancient Greek urban spaces were designed and used. The study of the course's exploration of the beginnings of democracy, in the context of architectural space, offers a unique perspective helpful for planning today's public spaces. This insight is essential for an urban planner, particularly one working in contexts with historical considerations.
See salaries and explore the career path for Urban Planner
Writer
A Writer creates written content for various media, including books, articles, and websites. This course on Greek Architecture may be helpful for those who write about history, architecture, or art. The course's detailed description of Greek architecture and its evolution provides material for potential articles or books. The course touches on the beginnings of democracy, and other concepts that may inspire a writer. The focus on site experience and detail allows a writers to use this information in their projects, which would give their writing more depth and gravitas. An aspiring writer may benefit from the course material, as well as the instructor's methodology.
See salaries and explore the career path for Writer

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 Greek Architecture.
Cover image
Greek Architecture
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of Greek architectural history, styles, and construction techniques. It valuable resource for understanding the evolution of Greek architecture from its earliest forms to its classical period. It offers detailed descriptions and illustrations of key architectural elements and structures. This book serves as an excellent reference for students seeking a deeper understanding of the subject matter.
Greek Architecture.
Hardcover
$$
Cover image
Think and Grow Rich - English : For Personal Growth...
Save
This handbook offers a broad survey of Greek art, including sculpture, painting, and pottery, providing valuable context for understanding the architectural achievements of the period. It helps students appreciate the aesthetic and cultural values that shaped Greek architecture. While not solely focused on architecture, it provides a crucial understanding of the artistic milieu. is best used as additional reading to enrich the course material.
Melania
Hardcover
$$
From Here to the Great Unknown: Oprah's Book Club:...
Hardcover
$$
War
Hardcover
$$
The Message
Hardcover
$$
Good Energy: The Surprising Connection Between...
Hardcover
$$
Be Ready When the Luck Happens: A Memoir
Hardcover
$$
The Anxious Generation: How the Great Rewiring of...
Hardcover
$$
Onyx Storm (Deluxe Limited Edition) (The Empyrean,...
Hardcover
$$
Spooky Cutie: Coloring Book for Adults and Teens...
Paperback
$
The Leaf Thief: (The Perfect Fall Book for Children...
Paperback
$$

Share

Help others find this course page by sharing it with your friends and followers:
Facebook
LinkedIn
Reddit
X
Link
Email

Similar courses

Similar courses are unavailable at this time. Please try again later.
Rating
4.2 Filled star Filled star Filled star Filled star Empty star
Effort
3 total hours
Via
Udemy
Instructor
Federico von Borstel
Language
English
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Examines Minoan and Mycenean architecture, including Troy, which provides a comprehensive overview of early Greek architectural influences
Explores Greek temples, theaters, the Agora, and the Pnyx, offering insights into the architectural elements of ancient Greek society
Includes graphic material taken or generated firsthand at the sites of origin, enhancing the learning experience with authentic visuals
Covers the origins of Greek architecture and residential architecture, providing a foundational understanding of the subject
Seeks to enrich your life experience, suggesting a broader appeal beyond purely academic or professional interests
Promotes self-learning, which may require learners to take initiative in their studies and research
Share this
Share to help others discover this course.
Facebook LinkedIn X Reddit Link Email
Begin learning today
Enroll now to gain full access to Greek Architecture.
Enroll now
Save for later
Add this course to your list. Find it anytime.
Save
Our mission

OpenCourser helps millions of learners each year. People visit us to learn workspace skills, ace their exams, and nurture their curiosity.

Our extensive catalog contains over 50,000 courses and twice as many books. Browse by search, by topic, or even by career interests. We'll match you to the right resources quickly.

Find this site helpful? Tell a friend about us.

Affiliate disclosure

We're supported by our community of learners. When you purchase or subscribe to courses and programs or purchase books, we may earn a commission from our partners.

Your purchases help us maintain our catalog and keep our servers humming without ads.

Thank you for supporting OpenCourser.

© 2016 - 2025 OpenCourser