Classical design formed our nation's capital. The soaring Washington Monument, the columns of the Lincoln Memorial, and the spectacular dome of the Capitol Building speak to the founders' comprehensive vision of our federal city. Learn about the L'Enfant and McMillan plans for Washington, D.C., and how those designs are reflected in two hundred years of monuments, museums, and representative government. View the statues of our Founding Fathers with the eye of a sculptor and gain insight into the criticism and controversies of modern additions to Washington's monumental structure. Author Michael Curtis guides this tour of the heart of the District of Columbia.
Chapter 1 Washington, the Classical City
The ancient cause of liberty; the immediate reason for independence; the classical principle of our convictions; the aesthetic model of a civil society.
Chapter 2 Ancient Roots of Classical Order
American classicism; our Greco-Roman heritage of thought, language, government, and art.
Chapter 3 A Republic of Virtue
Republics need virtuous citizens; forms of government, thought, art, and actions that cause virtue.
Chapter 4 National, Political, and Personal Liberty
The various aspects of liberty considered in exemplary statues.
Chapter 5 Freedom and Sacrifice
A consideration of freedom, sacrifice, and the architectural style best suited to remembrance.
Chapter 6 Symbols of Empire
Welcoming international responsibility; assuming the heritage of civilization; celebrating national character; extending liberty.
Chapter 7 Brutal Mistakes
Hubris and progressive misdirection; gradual abdication of citizen responsibility for morals and art; policy, an instrument to undermine traditional culture.
Chapter 7 Of the People
The inspired creation of the Federal City; plans in design and accident; the life, service and sacrifice of residents local and national.
Chapter 9 British America
We trace in Alexandria our growth from quaint colonial villagers to benevolent masters of the world.
ISBN
1625859716Title
Classical Architecture and Monuments of Washington, D.C.: A History & GuideAuthor
Michael CurtisPublisher
The History PressPublication year
2018Binding
PaperbackLanguage
English
