Architectural Studies 251 - Learning from Metropolis: Architecture and the Graphic Narrative

(Offered as ARCH 251 and ARHA 251) What can we learn about architecture from graphic narrative representations, real and imagined, of cities and buildings? In exploring this question, the course studies how architecture and urban spaces have been traditionally represented throughout a century and a half of modern graphic narrative. This course reflects upon what those representations reveal regarding who is included and how, among other issues. In addition to using the graphic narrative to become familiar with architecture’s themes and areas of concern, a key goal of this course is that students themselves develop abilities to tell stories using a graphic narrative format. We will analyze great stories told in this literary art form and will also learn a series of storytelling techniques. For students in Architectural Studies and other majors, this skill will be useful to create, explain, and defend arguments in a compelling form by using images, words, and the interplay between them.

 Limited to 20 students. Spring semester. Professor Gabriel Arboleda.

How to handle overenrollment: Priority to ARCH students, first-years, sophomores, and juniors in that order.

Students who enroll in this course will likely encounter and be expected to engage in the following intellectual skills, modes of learning, and assessment: Emphasis on independent work, visual and narrative analysis, and oral presentations. Attendance to class, reading the assigned material and timely submitting assignments are also expected.