Architectonic in Literature & Literary Theory

Architectonic: Etymology/Term, Meanings and Concept

Etymology/Term:

The term “architectonic” originates from the Greek word “architektonikos,” combining “archi-” meaning “chief” or “primary” and “tekton,” meaning “builder” or “craftsman.” It entered English in the 17th century, primarily through architectural discourse, and has since evolved to encompass broader conceptual frameworks beyond physical construction.

Meanings and Concept:

• Architectural Design: In its traditional sense, “architectonic” refers to the principles of architectural design, emphasizing the organization and structure of buildings or other constructed objects.
• Philosophical Significance: In philosophy, especially in the works of Immanuel Kant, “architectonic” takes on a broader meaning, denoting the systematic and hierarchical organization of knowledge. It involves structuring concepts in a manner that reflects their interdependence and coherence.
• Organizing Principles: Architectonic principles extend beyond physical structures and philosophical frameworks to denote any system or body of knowledge characterized by well-defined organizing principles and a systematic arrangement.
• Unified System: The concept implies the creation or analysis of a unified system where various elements contribute to a cohesive whole. It often involves a consideration of how individual components relate to the overall structure.
• Holistic Approach: Architectonic thinking involves a holistic approach, emphasizing the interconnectedness and unity within a system, whether it be in architecture, philosophy, or other disciplines.
• Systematic Integration: Architectonic principles require the systematic integration of elements, ensuring a harmonious and purposeful arrangement that enhances both form and function.
• Intellectual Framework: In intellectual contexts, architectonic refers to the overarching framework that governs the organization of ideas, theories, or disciplines, providing a structure for comprehensive understanding.
• Order and Harmony: The term often conveys a sense of order and harmony, whether applied to physical design or conceptual organization, promoting a balanced and purposeful arrangement of elements.
• Interdisciplinary Application: Beyond philosophy and architecture, the concept of architectonic has found application in various interdisciplinary fields, highlighting the importance of structured and interrelated systems of thought or design.

Architectonic: Definition of a Theoretical Term

“Architectonic” as a theoretical term encompasses the systematic organization and hierarchical structuring of elements within a particular framework, extending from physical structures to abstract systems. In architecture, it refers to the principles governing the design and arrangement of buildings. In a broader sense, especially in philosophical contexts influenced by thinkers like Immanuel Kant, it signifies the systematic organization of knowledge or concepts to achieve a coherent and interrelated whole.

Architectonic: Theorists, Works, and Arguments

Theorists:

1. Immanuel Kant:
   • Works: Kant’s “Critique of Pure Reason” is a seminal work where he introduces the concept of architectonic in the context of organizing knowledge.
   • Arguments: Kant argues that a systematic architectonic is crucial for a comprehensive understanding of philosophy, emphasizing the hierarchical arrangement of concepts to establish a unified and coherent structure.
2. Friedrich Schelling:
   • Works: Schelling, particularly in his “System of Transcendental Idealism,” explores architectonic principles in the realm of German Idealism.
   • Arguments: Schelling extends Kantian ideas, emphasizing the dynamic and organic nature of architectonic structures, portraying them as evolving systems rather than static frameworks.
3. Louis Sullivan:
   • Works: Sullivan, an American architect, expresses architectonic principles in his essay “The Tall Office Building Artistically Considered.”
   • Arguments: Sullivan argues that the design of a building should reflect its purpose and function, with form following function—a principle that aligns with architectonic considerations in architecture.

Works:

1. “Critique of Pure Reason” by Immanuel Kant:
   • Architectonic Significance: In this work, Kant develops his architectonic concept, asserting the need for a systematic organization of knowledge to achieve a thorough understanding of metaphysics.
2. “System of Transcendental Idealism” by Friedrich Schelling:
   • Architectonic Exploration: Schelling explores this principles in the context of German Idealism, emphasizing the systematic arrangement of philosophical concepts.
3. “The Tall Office Building Artistically Considered” by Louis Sullivan:
   • Architectonic Application: Sullivan applies architectonic principles to architecture, arguing for the artistic consideration of tall office buildings based on their purpose and function.

Arguments:

1. Hierarchical Organization (Kant):
   • Kant argues that architectonic principles involve a hierarchical organization of knowledge, where fundamental concepts serve as the foundation, supporting and informing more complex ideas.
2. Dynamic Nature (Schelling):
   • Schelling’s argument focuses on the dynamic and evolving nature of architectonic structures, viewing them as living systems that adapt and grow over time.
3. Form Follows Function (Sullivan):
   • Sullivan’s argument emphasizes the principle that the form of a building should align with its function, illustrating this approach that prioritizes the purpose and utility of the structure.

Architectonic: Major Characteristics

1. Structural Organization:
   • This often refers to the overall structural organization or design of a system, object, or concept. It emphasizes the arrangement and interrelation of parts to form a cohesive whole.
2. Systematic Design:
   • This design is typically characterized by a systematic and intentional approach to planning and organizing elements. This can apply to various fields, including architecture, philosophy, and even thought processes.
3. Holistic Perspective:
   • This thinking often involves a holistic perspective, where the entire system or structure is considered as a unified entity. This holistic approach aims to understand the relationships and interactions between the components.
4. Integration of Parts:
   • This structure often involves the integration of individual parts to create a harmonious and functional whole. This integration may be achieved through careful planning, coordination, and consideration of each part’s role.
5. Emphasis on Principles:
   • This design often relies on fundamental principles or guiding concepts. These principles serve as the foundation for decision-making and contribute to the coherence and unity of the overall design.
6. Aesthetic Considerations:
   • In architecture, it is often associated with aesthetic considerations. Architectonic elements may contribute to the visual appeal of a structure, and attention to proportions, symmetry, and form is common.
7. Philosophical Context:
   • In philosophy, especially in the works of Immanuel Kant, it refers to the systematic and hierarchical organization of knowledge. Kant used the term to describe the structuring of philosophical ideas into a comprehensive and interconnected system.
8. Order and Logic:
   • This structure often exhibits a sense of order and logic in their arrangement. Whether in physical structures or abstract systems, there is a deliberate effort to organize elements in a coherent and logical manner.
9. Functional Integration:
   • This design may emphasize not only the visual and conceptual integration but also the functional integration of components. This includes how well the parts work together to achieve a specific purpose or function.
10. Adaptability and Flexibility:
    • This design may also consider adaptability and flexibility, allowing the structure or system to evolve or respond to changing needs over time.

Architectonic: Relevance in Literary Theories

Literary Theory	Relevance
Structuralism	Emphasizes the systematic organization and interrelation of elements in a text, highlighting the underlying structure of narratives.
Formalism	Focuses on the internal structure and form of literary works, considering how elements contribute to the overall design.
New Criticism	Similar to formalism, New Criticism examines the intrinsic qualities of a text, looking at its architectonic elements for meaning.
Poststructuralism	Challenges the idea of a fixed structure and emphasizes the deconstruction of traditional narratives, disrupting architectonic norms.
Postmodernism	Questions grand narratives and often employs fragmented structures, challenging traditional architectonic principles in literature.
Reader-Response Criticism	Considers the reader’s role in constructing meaning and how the architectonic elements influence individual interpretations.
Marxist Literary Theory	Examines the socioeconomic structures reflected in literature, exploring how architectonic choices convey power dynamics.
Feminist Literary Criticism	Investigates how gender roles and relationships are constructed within the architectonic framework of literary works.
Psychoanalytic Literary Theory	Explores the subconscious elements in literature, examining how architectonic choices may reflect psychological processes.
Postcolonial Literary Theory	Analyzes how colonial and postcolonial power structures are represented in literature through architectonic elements.

Architectonic: Application in Critiques

1. Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen (1813):
   • Architectonic analysis of Pride and Prejudice would focus on Austen’s deliberate structuring of social classes, relationships, and moral values. The novel’s architectonic design showcases the rigid social hierarchy of the time and explores how individual choices within this structure impact the characters’ lives.
2. Wuthering Heights by Emily Brontë (1847):
   • In Wuthering Heights, the architectonic elements contribute to the dark and complex narrative. The novel’s structure, with its dual narration and intricate timelines, adds to the sense of mystery and Gothic atmosphere. Architectonic analysis would delve into how Brontë’s choices enhance the overall impact of the story.
3. Mrs. Dalloway by Virginia Woolf (1925):
   • Woolf’s modernist approach in Mrs. Dalloway involves a distinctive architectonic design. The novel unfolds over a single day, interweaving multiple perspectives and streams of consciousness. An architectonic critique would explore how Woolf’s experimental narrative structure reflects the characters’ inner thoughts and the passage of time.
4. 1984 by George Orwell (1949):
   • Orwell’s 1984 exhibits a dystopian architectonic design that reflects the oppressive nature of the society depicted. The novel’s structure, with its controlled language, surveillance, and political manipulation, serves as a commentary on totalitarianism. This analysis would examine how Orwell’s choices contribute to the portrayal of a dehumanizing regime.

Architectonic: Relevant Terms

Term	Definition
Structure	Overall organization and arrangement of elements.
Design	Deliberate planning and arrangement of components.
Composition	Formation of a whole through the arrangement of parts.
Configuration	The specific arrangement or formation of elements.
Framework	Basic structure providing support or shape.
Systematization	Imposing a systematic or organized structure.
Organization	The orderly arrangement of elements or components.
Formulation	Developing a structured plan or arrangement.
Arrangement	Placing elements in a particular order or pattern.
Conformation	The shape or structure resulting from arrangement.

Architectonic: Suggested Readings

1. Foucault, Michel. The Order of Things: An Archaeology of the Human Sciences. Vintage Books, 1994.
2. Kant, Immanuel. Critique of Pure Reason. Translated by Norman Kemp Smith, St. Martin’s Press, 1965.
3. Rowe, Colin, and Fred Koetter. Collage City. MIT Press, 1978.
4. Tschumi, Bernard. Architecture and Disjunction. MIT Press, 1996.
5. Venturi, Robert, Denise Scott Brown, and Steven Izenour. Learning from Las Vegas: The Forgotten Symbolism of Architectural Form. MIT Press, 1977.