Vitruvius: The Ten Books on Architecture [Books I-X ]: 1

The ten books do very well what they promise to do. They describe the fundamentals of ancient architecture and building practices. During the time between then and now, some of the technical details have been proven to be correct while some have been found to be completely off-track, sometimes very amusing still. This all is something one knows to expect from the book. The extra bonus is that as Vitruvius has been given the means, he takes the liberty to write about whatever he feels the urge to write about. The are numerous pages about general politics, and what I specially enjoyed: a short wondering about why the sportsmen are so much more valued in the society than persons with more useful achievements. Just to give an example of the loose fencing around the subject.

If you are interested in classical architecture, Roman history and its insights or attitudes, or even aesthetic theory and have wondered at the fascination it held for the 18th century, then this is a great book to dip into for source material. There's a wealth of fascinating stuff depending on which perspective you're coming from. If you're a hardened book lover you'll enjoy many of its aspects, though steer clear if you're not: J.K. Rowling this isn't.

Very informative, nicely presented, all good.

Being a practising Engineer , for some 50 years plus now , I am forever reading new texts and technical papers in connection with buildings and structures . Occasionally , the name " Vitruvius" pops-up , especially when reading articles on classical architecture and the structural behaviour and geometrical form of the older buildings built from stone . So , I was curious to find out who this Vitruvius is ? Thus , I scanned the Amazon " Bookshelf " with a view to finding a good , but concise book on the subject and which I now have .I have only just started to read the book , but I have already learned a few interesting facts . The language of the book is in the quaint , classical style . Some people may find the book "heavy going" but , really , it is for the likes of Architects and Engineers . I'm sure many Architects read this book during their studies at college .I continue to read the book in small measures and , no doubt , I will come to a final conclusion when I have finished it .Interesting book , so far .

Fantastic book for those interested in the ingenuity and art of the ancient world

I am an architect and by God it is amazing how things have not changed that much from the days of Vitruvius. Plus you never know when you want to build war vehicles.... he he.Seriously..... if you are intrested in building.. construction, Architecture it can only add to your knowladge.

It is an architecture classic and I need it as reference. That's all there is to say. Your pricing is an enigma - used books more expensive than new copies . . .

This is literally a translation of Vitruvius with a few added sketches and photographs taken by the original translator. The translator wanted to stay true to Vitruvius' original and consequently translated his matter of fact language. This is not the fine prose of Tacitus. However, it does appear to define what the Romans knew about building and engineering and for that alone it is worth the slog.The book covers many subjects from building and choice of materials to acoustics and water organs. He even defined what he believed would make a good Architect. This is Vitruvius' opinion, but it subsequently does appear to be one shared by many in the Empire. His opinions are generally confined to those regarding architecture. He does occasionally stray from engineering, but this is not a social history.I originally read the book in isolation and due to the above found it hard going. However, as a companion book to say "Engineering in the Ancient World by JG Landels [1978]" it was much easier to understand the engineering.In summary; the book serves its purpose as a translation, but is not easy going if you want to understand the engineering.

Item was as expected and arrived quickly and in good condition. Bought it for a course and it did the job. Thanks!

A must read book. It's for anyone who wants to have a knowledge on how to build great buildings.It's kind of like liberal art.

all time classics for any students of architecture

Ne pas posséder ce livre pour quelqu'un qui se dit intéressé par l'Architecture serait comme si un mélomane ne possédait pas quelques oeuvres de Bach. L'ouvrage se passe de mots, puisqu'il s'agit d'une oeuvre de référence. Ce format est vendu à prix démocratique, parce que les ouvrages d'époque valent des fortunes.

This book is a MUST for every interested mind to understanding the basics and logic to why construction and design is, what it is! Today construction throws logic out the door and is based off of money ... short term return. This book along with Palladio's book, Four Books of Architecture, will be the corner stone of a new chapter in construction and design. Designers, Builders and politicians (who should not be in the mix of decision makers) all talk the talk of "Green", proving to be a farce in many ways. Simple concepts explained and set in these two books prove more "Green" than anything brought up today in this world based off of fade and fashion.Just make it simple, get these two books into your reading schedule and learn what was forgotten. The thought process becomes clear once taken the time to just sit down and READ!!!Michael in Charlotte, NC(previously of FL, previously of NV, previously of CA, previously of DC, previously of PA)