Vitruvius
Vitruvius: A Life of Architecture and Philosophy
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#### Full Name and Common Aliases
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Marcus Vitruvius Pollio, more commonly known as Vitruvius, was a Roman architect, engineer, and author. His name is often associated with the concept of the "Vitruvian Man," an iconic drawing by Leonardo da Vinci that represents the perfect proportions of the human body.
#### Birth and Death Dates
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Although the exact dates of his birth and death are unknown, historians believe Vitruvius was born around 75 BCE in Rome, Italy. He lived through some of the most turbulent periods in Roman history, including the reigns of Julius Caesar and Augustus.
#### Nationality and Profession(s)
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Vitruvius was a Roman citizen by birth and is best known as an architect, engineer, and writer. His work had a significant impact on Western architecture, engineering, and art.
#### Early Life and Background
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Little is known about Vitruvius' early life, but it's believed he came from a wealthy family in Rome. His background likely provided him with the education and resources needed to pursue his passion for architecture and engineering. Vitruvius served as an engineer under Julius Caesar during the Roman campaigns in Gaul (modern-day France).
#### Major Accomplishments
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Vitruvius is most famous for his comprehensive guide to building design, construction, and engineering, titled De Architectura or The Ten Books on Architecture. Written around 25 BCE, this treatise covers various aspects of architecture, from the selection of building sites to the design of temples, theaters, and public baths.
Some of Vitruvius' notable achievements include:
Designing and constructing several buildings in Rome, including temples, basilicas, and public monuments
Serving as an engineer for Julius Caesar's military campaigns, where he was responsible for designing and building siege engines, bridges, and other fortifications
Developing innovative solutions to engineering problems, such as the use of arches and vaults in buildings
#### Notable Works or Actions
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Vitruvius' most notable work is undoubtedly De Architectura, which remains a foundational text for architects and engineers to this day. The treatise covers topics like:
The principles of design, including proportion, balance, and harmony
Building materials and construction techniques
Urban planning and the layout of cities
#### Impact and Legacy
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Vitruvius' work had a profound impact on Western architecture and engineering. His ideas about proportion, balance, and harmony influenced architects like Leonardo da Vinci, who incorporated these principles into his iconic drawings.
The concept of the "Vitruvian Man," created by da Vinci in 1490, represents the perfect proportions of the human body as described by Vitruvius. This image has become an enduring symbol of Renaissance art and culture.
#### Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
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Vitruvius is widely quoted and remembered for his groundbreaking work in architecture and engineering. His treatise De Architectura remains a foundational text, influencing architects and engineers for centuries. The concept of the "Vitruvian Man" has become an iconic representation of Renaissance art and culture.
As a master builder, engineer, and writer, Vitruvius left an indelible mark on Western civilization. His work continues to inspire new generations of architects, engineers, and artists, solidifying his place as one of the most influential figures in human history.
Quotes by Vitruvius
I think that men have no right to profess themselves architects hastily, without having climbed from boyhood the steps of these studies and thus, nursed by the knowledge of many arts and sciences, having reached the heights of the holy ground of architecture.
When it passes towards the east, the sun begins to have less effect upon it, and a thin line on the edge of its bright side emits its splendour towards the earth.
I, therefore, O Caesar, do not publish this work, merely prefixing my name to a treatise which of right belongs to others, nor think of acquiring reputation by finding fault with the works of any one.
Since, therefore, individuals as well as the public are so indebted to these writers for the benefits they enjoy, I think them not only entitled to the honour of palms and crowns, but even to be numbered among the gods.
The temple of Ceres should be in a solitary spot out of the city, to which the public are not necessarily led but for the purpose of sacrificing to her.
Harmony is an obscure and difficult musical science, but most difficult to those who are not acquainted with the Greek language; because it is necessary to use many Greek words to which there are none corresponding in Latin.
The lanes and streets of the city being set out, the choice of sites for the convenience and use of the state remains to be decided on; for sacred edifices, for the forum, and for other public buildings.
I am moreover inclined to be concise when I reflect on the constant occupation of the citizens in public and private affairs, so that in their few leisure moments they may read and understand as much as possible.
Wherefore the mere practical architect is not able to assign sufficient reasons for the forms he adopts; and the theoretic architect also fails, grasping the shadow instead of the substance.