Did the Romans build an empire?Essay Questions & Drawing Tasks for "Engineering an Empire ancient Rome

This set of essay questions and drawing tasks will help first-year architecture students analyze the video documentary "Engineering an Empire - Rome" through an architectural lens.

Essay Questions ancient rome

• Innovation & Materials:  

  
  

  The Roman Empire is known for its innovative use of materials like concrete. Discuss how this innovation impacted Roman architecture. How can this inspire new approaches to building materials today? 

• Form & Function:  

  
  

  Analyze the Colosseum as a case study.  Discuss how the Romans balanced form (aesthetics) and function (crowd control, entertainment) in its design. 

• Urban Planning:  

  
  

  Describe the key features of Roman city planning, like aqueducts and forums.  How did these elements contribute to the efficiency and social life of Roman cities? 
  

What was the real way Rome was founded?

• Legacy & Influence:  

  
  

  How have Roman architectural elements (arches, domes, columns) influenced Western architecture throughout history?  Provide specific examples.  

• Engineering Marvels:  

  
  

  Focus on a specific Roman engineering feat showcased in the documentary (bridges, aqueducts, roads).  Explain the engineering principles behind it and its significance for the Roman Empire.  

• Sustainability & Impact:  

  
  

  Discuss the environmental impact of Roman construction methods (resource usage, waste).  How can we learn from their successes and failures to create a more sustainable architecture in the future? 

How did ancient Rome start?

ancient rome

• Social Hierarchy & Design:  

  
  

  Roman architecture often reflected social status.  How did the design of public buildings like temples or baths differ from private residences? 

• (Bonus) Architectural Imagination:  

  
  

  Imagine you are a Roman architect tasked with designing a new public building for the emperor.  Sketch your design and explain your choices based on the principles you learned about Roman architecture. 

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Drawing Tasks: Choose One Significant Structure

Drawing Requirements:

1. Section Drawing:  

   
   

   Choose a Roman structure featured in the documentary (arch, dome, aqueduct).  Draw a detailed section drawing that reveals its construction methods and materials.

   
   

2. Floor Plan Analysis:  

   
   

   Select a Roman building type (temple, forum, theater).  Draw a basic floor plan and analyze its spatial organization and how it facilitated its intended use.

Note:

Combine your essay answer with your drawing to create a more comprehensive analysis.