—
PREFACE TO THE FIRST EDITION. The
Authors' aim in writing this book has been, not only to give
and
form the characteristic features of the archiand country, but also to consider those influences which have contributed to the formation of each in clear
brief
tecture of each people
special
style.
They
are of opinion that in published works
Architecture has often been too
much
upon the
isolated from
its
subject,
surround-
and that the main points of the physical geography, social and historical development of each country require to be understood by those who would study and comprehend its ings,
progress,
particular style.
In order to bring out the effects of these influences, and also the qualities of the styles themselves, a compavative and analytical
method has been adopted, so that by the contrast of qualities the may be more easily grasped. For instance, the special character of Gothic architecture becomes manifest when put in comparison with the Classic and Renaissance styles; and, furtherdifferences
more, the shades of difference each, can also be equally
in
the local or national phases of similar comparative
drawn out by a
treatment.
The trasted
styles themselves are then analysed ;
and the parts con-
the analysis being carried out on the basis of the essential
As
system pervades the whole book, either the influences, character, examples, or comparative features of each style, can be contrasted with those in any other style. This then is the scheme of the book, which parts which every building possesses.
has been divided into five sections I.
Influences. i.
ii.
iii.
Geographical, Geological,
Climate.
in
this
each period, as follows
: