| Title |
A Study on the Meaning of the Term 'Architecture' and 'Architect' in Ancient Greek and Latin Language |
| Keywords |
Architect ; Architecture ; Ancient Greek ; Latin |
| Abstract |
The word 'architecture/architect' originated from ancient Greek 'architekton(?ρχιτ?κτων)' is widely accepted as the one related to building industry. This study tries to show that the word 'architect' in Ancient Greek and Latin usage indicates the position or responsibility of planning and conducting persecution of making something in general other than profession. In Greek the term used to designate a person building houses is 'oikodomos(οικοδ?μο?)'; in Latin 'aedificat.' The Greek term 'architekton(?ρχιτ?κτων)' found in Histoires by Herodotus is applied to three persons who were responsible for building water tunnel, temple, and dam. Greek plays and writings provide substantial cases indicating architect as a general manager. In Latin, 'architectus' believed strongly related to Greek term inherited almost same meaning as Greek counterpart. Even the most influential architectural book, De Architectura Libri Decem, by Vitruvius is a clear example showing less a profession as modern usage indicates as related to building industry than general planner or manager in civil works. Acknowledging the word architect as a responsibility other than profession provides much clearer way to understand ancient writings explaining their building business. |