Architectural Theory

Architectural theory concerns itself with the fundamental questions of building—from the ideal forms to the purpose of structures and the relationship between architect and society. Dietrich Erben provides a concise, clear overview from the most important ideas that came out of Antiquity to the chorus of voices that inform present day discussions. Architectural theory is fed by the gaze and it can make silent structures speak, which makes this book a wonderfully exciting guide to appreciating architecture. Dietrich Erben is a professor of the theory and history of architecture, art, and design at the Technical University of Munich. C.H.Beck has also published Erben’s Die Kunst des Barock (Baroque Art, 2008).