Architects should be educated, skillful with the pencil, instructed in geometry, know much history, have followed the philosophers with attention, understand music, have some knowledge of medicine, know the opinions of the jurists, and be acquainted with astronomy and the theory of the heavens
Interpretation
Architects must possess a broad range of knowledge and skills beyond just design.
This quote emphasizes the multifaceted nature of architecture and the diverse knowledge required to be a successful architect. Vitruvius argues that architects should be well-educated in various subjects such as geometry, history, philosophy, music, medicine, law, and astronomy, highlighting the importance of a holistic approach to the profession and suggesting that a deep understanding of multiple disciplines can enhance their architectural practice.
In practice
In a lecture on the importance of interdisciplinary studies, this quote reflects how various subjects contribute to architecture.
Architect's designs must refer to the unquestionable perfection of the body's symmetry and proportions. If a building is to create a sense of eurythmia, it is essential that it mirrors these natural laws of harmony and beauty
Now architecture consists of order, which in Greek is called taxis ... Order is the balanced adjustment of the details of the work separately, and, as to the whole, the arrangement of the proportion with a view to a symmetrical result.
Beauty is produced by the pleasing appearance and good taste of the whole, and by the dimensions of all the parts being duly proportioned to each other.
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.
I, therefore, O Caesar, do not publish this work, merely prefixing my name to a treatise which of right belongs to others, nor think of acquiring reputation by finding fault with the works of any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.
But I, Caesar, have not sought to amass wealth by the practice of my art, having been rather contented with a small fortune and reputation, than desirous of abundance accompanied by a want of reputation.
I thought I was going to school to be other people, but really, what I learned was to be myself - accepting myself, my strengths and weaknesses.
In teaching you cannot see the fruit of a day's work. It is invisible and remains so, maybe for twenty years.
If you are in difficulties with a book, try the element of surprise: attack it at an hour when it isn't expecting it.
No bubble is so iridescent or floats longer than that blown by the successful teacher.
All the learnin' my father paid for was a bit o' birch at one end and an alphabet at the other.
Secretly, in studies and attics and schoolrooms all over America, people must be writing.
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