FSEM 174   Architecture in Conflict and Cataclysm

Faculty Profile for Professor Guile

Studies the impact of conflict and cataclysm on architectural heritage with an emphasis on Europe and America. The Russian invasion of Ukraine is endangering Ukrainian cultural heritage, with historic structures being targeted for destruction, and entire cities leveled. The April 2019 fire at Notre Dame cathedral in Paris generated a vigorous debate about how (and how fast) to respond to the loss of historic architectural heritage. Local stakeholders are working together with international agencies to assess and rebuild damaged heritage in Syria and Iraq. The 2004 reconstruction of the sixteenth-century Mostar Bridge aimed to heal the religious divisions of the War in Bosnia and Herzegovina. After the Second World War, inhabitants of Warsaw had to decide on which image of their city to revive in reconstruction activities. Students study these case studies and others, to consider the destruction, reconstruction, and preservation of architectural heritage. Students discuss religious iconoclasm, revolution, tactical destruction and cultural cleansing, monuments and memorialization, architectural reconstruction and “facadism,” looting/art theft, accident and natural disaster; the politics of representation will also figure prominently. What can we learn from these histories? How have the issues been theorized by practitioners? How do local communities participate? What is the future of historic preservation? Assignments include short essays, a research project, and collaborative presentations, as well as a class trip to Lower Manhattan to visit the 9/11 Memorial. Students are also introduced to research fundamentals. Students who successfully complete this seminar will receive credit for a 200-level ARTS course and satisfy one half of the Human Thought and Expression area of inquiry requirement.

Professor Carolyn Guile’s research is focused on Eastern European arts and architecture, European architectural theory, and art historiography of the early modern period. Current projects include a study of the historical architectures of Poland and Ukraine. She also writes on the impact of conflict on cultural heritage. She is Co-Director of Colgate's Center for Freedom and Western Civilization and Executive Director for Red Arch Cultural Heritage Law & Policy Research.