Neoclassicism—the classical revival of the mid-eighteenth to mid-nineteenth centuries—differed from

earlier forms of classicism. It was not only an aesthetic prototype but also a moral imperative.

Underpinned by a rigorous body of theory, it linked with the rational, scientific spirit of the Enlightenment.

The style was supported by a new mood in Western society—aspirational, moralizing and based on

rational principles traceable to antiquity. Linking to an idealized past, it was believed, would lead to a new

rational society. For architecture to provide the paradigm and setting for this new society, it needed to

reject the frivolity and decadence related to the extravaganza of late mediaeval aesthetic. In neoclassical

architecture there was an overall sense of harmony combined with a mathematical restraint. Buildings in

this style show an enhanced sense of formal geometry, and structural purity with minimal surface

decoration. Neoclassic architectural style, however developed in different countries under different

historical and cultural context. In general what similarities and differences you see between the works of

French Neoclassic architecture and American Neoclassic
Architecture.
In your discussion use examples from your reading materials, but you are also encouraged to use

examples from external sources. For example to compare Saint-Genevieve (example from your reading)

with US Capitol,
Washington (not from your reading) would be an interesting exercise