Course Catalogue

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Scotland has a rich tradition of architecture, from the prehistoric settlements of Skara Brae and Kilmartin, through Gothic cathedrals and Renaissance castles and palaces, to the Victorian splendour of our city centres and beyond. This course offers case studies of ten significant structures in Scotland, including the contentious Scottish Parliament building. We'll discuss the buildings themselves, the people who planned them, their historic and social contexts, the uses to which they were put, and the meanings they have had over the years.

Block 1

Wednesday, 10.00-12.00

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Essay (approximately 1500 words) from a choice of titles (75%); visual test in class: identification, comparison and discussion of buildings (as shown through slides) (25%). An alternative assessment can be arranged for students whose disabilities would prevent them performing satisfactorily in the visual test.

The course aims to:

■ Introduce students to the architectural history of Scotland, through ten case studies of significant structures

■ Place these structures in their various architectural, historical and cultural contexts

■ Encourage students to use secondary sources such as printed and online resources in relation to Scottish architecture

By the end of this course students will be able to:

■ Identify the key architectural styles encountered in Scotland, as evident through the case studies

■ Describe and discuss the social, political and cultural influences on Scottish architecture

■ Identify the key secondary printed and online resources to research a building's history.

■ Place Scottish buildings within their time frame and context

Students must submit at least 75% by weight of the components (including examinations) of the course's summative assessment.