Unit n. 1 – The foundations Summary n. 1: The Introduction of Temples and Foreign Influence and the Role of the Architect At the end of the Middle Ages, Hellenic civilization began to form, introducing temples as the main architectural focus of that era (Lawrence, 58). Despite their formation after the Hellenic period, temples were influenced by a variety of factors, including the layout of medieval houses (58). Temples served as a home for deities, a structure to visit, rather than what we would normally consider a place of worship (58). Furthermore, alongside the focus on temples, the role of an architect was introduced in depth as Coulton distinguished Greek architects from modern architects. According to his definition, the architects of Greek civilization played a more active role in the construction of their project, focusing on the smallest details that would not fall under the responsibilities of a modern architect (Coulton, 15). As Lawrence details the events of the Dark Ages, one begins to appreciate the introduction of temples into ancient Greek society as representing a new beginning. It is interesting to read that “in the Bronze Age there were no temples” (Lawrence, 61). The introduction of an era capable of producing such impressive architecture following a rapid decline in knowledge is also impressive. Although not a temple, Lefkandi in Euboia requires mention in this summary due to its impressive size (62). As Lawrence explains, the architectural form of this building is closely associated with buildings from the later Greek era, due to the similarity of later temples based on its shape and features (62). Alongside the introduction of temples, Orders were…half of paper…issued by the Egyptians, including pulleys and winches (48). Coulton believes that one of the most important similarities between Greek and Egyptian style techniques concerns the "finishing process" for the walls of their monuments (49). The first selection of readings for this Greek architecture course helped introduce the theme of this unit: “The Fundamentals,” as it introduced Hellenic civilization and its focus on temples, discussed the influences of various cultures and eras, detailing the fundamental role of the architect. These basics will help explain many aspects of Greek architecture in the future, as the topics in this course become more detailed and elaborate. Lawrence and Coulton have impressive knowledge of the topic and their perspectives allow for a different interpretation of the work we will study.