The fourth lecture in Doug Allen's History of Urban Form series introduces the Classical Greek city of Athens and explores how urban spaces, such as the Agora, provided a foundation for Greek and Western politics, culture, and institutions.

Lecture 04: The Polis and the Knowledge of the Good

The History of Urban Form was one of the most influential courses ever taught at Georgia Tech: one year it was voted the most popular elective on the entire campus. For many of his students it was enough to change their career paths to urban design and city planning.

We are fortunate that Professor Doug Allen recorded his lectures the last year he was able to teach them, and we are honored to begin sharing them with you here for the first time.

This series of lecture videos will expand your understanding of where cities come from and where they are going. But this is not your average history course. Through sharp wit and legendary asides, Allen reveals and analyzes the interconnected components of cities and displays their collective histories against the challenges of contemporary planning. Prepare to see the built environment in a new light.

Education

Arts

History

Courses

Design

The History of Urban Form was one of the most influential courses ever taught at Georgia Tech: one year it was voted the most popular elective on the entire campus. For many of his students it was enough to change their career paths to urban design and city planning. We are fortunate that Professor Doug Allen recorded his lectures the last year he was able to teach them, and we are honored to begin sharing them with you here for the first time. This series of lecture videos will expand your understanding of where cities come from and where they are going. But this is not your average history course. Through sharp wit and legendary asides, Allen reveals and analyzes the interconnected components of cities and displays their collective histories against the challenges of contemporary planning. Prepare to see the built environment in a new light.

Share Lecture 04: The Polis and the Knowledge of the Good

Sign up to save your podcasts

Lecture 04: The Polis and the Knowledge of the Good

Lecture 04: The Polis and the Knowledge of the Good