English Architecture: Making England in the Shadow of Rome, 410-1130

This module explores the fascinating period when England emerged from the remnants of the Roman Province of Britannia. Despite significant social and political upheaval following the Norman Conquest in 1066, the enduring legacy of Roman architecture remained central to English identity. Key themes include:

• The obsession with Roman architectural styles.
• How patrons and architects drew inspiration from Rome.
• The cultural significance of Rome in shaping English architectural imagination.

By analyzing various structures, students will understand how the past influenced the present and set the stage for future architectural developments.

Course Lectures

• English Architecture: Making England in the Shadow of Rome, 410-1130

  Simon Thurley

  Playing

  This module explores the fascinating period when England emerged from the remnants of the Roman Province of Britannia. Despite significant social and political upheaval following the Norman Conquest in 1066, the enduring legacy of Roman architecture remained central to English identity. Key themes include:

  • The obsession with Roman architectural styles.
  • How patrons and architects drew inspiration from Rome.
  • The cultural significance of Rome in shaping English architectural imagination.

  By analyzing various structures, students will understand how the past influenced the present and set the stage for future architectural developments.

• English Architecture: Reaching for Heaven, 1130-1300

  Simon Thurley

  Play

  In this module, we examine the transformative power of wealth and aspiration during the 13th century, as Jerusalem emerged as a new architectural muse. The period witnessed:

  • A surge in national wealth fueling creative architectural projects.
  • The birth of Gothic architecture, which became synonymous with English identity.
  • Notable examples of remarkable buildings that define this era.

  Students will discover how these architectural advancements reflected a unique blend of spirituality and national pride, marking a significant shift in England's architectural narrative.

• English Architecture: Exuberance to Crisis, 1300 to 1408

  Simon Thurley

  Play

  This module discusses the architectural landscape of England during a time of both exuberance and crisis (1300 to 1408). Students will explore:

  • The architectural excess that characterized England's economic zenith.
  • The subsequent series of calamities impacting the nation's prosperity.
  • How individualism in architecture thrived despite challenging circumstances.
  • The emergence of a consensus in architecture shaped by evolving social dynamics.

  By studying this period, students will gain insight into the resilience of architectural expression and its reflection of societal changes.

• English Architecture: Coming of Age, 1408-1530

  Simon Thurley

  Play

  In this final module, we explore the architectural maturity of England from 1408 to 1530 against a backdrop of political instability. Key aspects include:

  • The emergence of a new class of patrons influencing architectural design.
  • Architectural styles reflecting confidence and existential fears.
  • The pinnacle of English architecture preceding the Reformation and its subsequent transformation under Henry VIII.

  This module provides a comprehensive understanding of how architecture acted as both a reflection of and response to the societal changes of the time.