Vitruvius: De Architectura (Illustrated)

If you are an Architect/Roman history fan, you need to get this book. Very insightful

Masterclass

Already read this digitally but wanted one to annotate and this was perfect!

Could not find author's email address anywhere. Book binding leaves something to be desired

I currently study in the field of archaeology and had a module exam to research certain aspects in woodworking, such as carpentry or where it was imported from to begin with. This book contains a good variety of where resources where gathered from, how they where, when and how they where processed and then implemented into buildings. There is also a number of interesting illustrations in this edition, which helps greatly in understanding some of Vitruvius texts a lot better. I personally think, that for anyone interested in the topic this book is a great asset, and helps understand a lot of the periods thinking, it also leaves one astonished of how most approaches in today's world haven't changed much since then, but simply got modernized.

The Ten Books on Architecture are justly famous. Whilst to Vitruvius he was writing a modern text, complete with references to those who were ancient to him, it now gives a wonderful insight into perspectives of those long before us. The books include sections which are in honesty hard to follow: detailed descriptions of machines with rather too much knowledge assumed. The sections on classical orders and descriptions of the constellations are easier to follow but quite laborious. However, the text is enlivened by numerous anecdotes and movements of insight. Vitruvius accurately describes the spherical earth, the use of levers, and methods of moving water. His understanding of optics approaches our perspective; even though he was aware of the ancient (to him, current) view the eye sees by projecting rays, he suggests light is received. The books are well worth reading for the perspective it gives. This edition is simply but reasonably prepared. There are a few typos which appear to come from OCR, but they don't really affect the ability to understand.

The bookbinding is poor, pages are just falling off. Other than the quality of the book, the content is a must read. Perfect for students as well. Maybe find another publisher or you may be facing the same issue. Only put 2 stars because if the quality of the print.