A Contrastive Study On Culture Through The Architecture Of The Citadel In Hue Vietnam And The Forbidden City In Beijing China

Architecture is one of the most important criteria for assessing human civilization. Architecture which encompasses various cultures, history, geography of different geographical areas, can help younger generations have more knowledge about previous eras. It is true that a typical architectural work of one nation is considered as a priceless encyclopedia which records ideas, concepts and aesthetics of a nation.The Forbidden City in Beijing, which is also named as Imperial Palace of the Ming and Qing Dynasties in China, has witnessed the development and the ups and downs in the history of the two dynasties. It is a representative of ancient Chinese architectural styles and Beijing Forbidden City is one of the most well-preserved palaces in the world.Hue Citadel, the capital of the Nguyen dynasty in Vietnam, was built after the Forbidden City. Because the two countries have a long process of cultural exchanges, there is a lot of similarities in the architecture of two citadels. In fact, both of them are typical architectural works of the two countries, which covers the concepts and ideas of the two peoples in the Oriental Culture.Currently, with the deeper exchange on all aspects between of the two countries; the needs to learn the culture of the two countries has increased significantly. It is necessary to investigate the architecture of Hue Citadel and Beijing Forbidden City. Based on those practical demands, this thesis studies the architecture of two citadels. It is hoped to help readers understand more about these great architectural works and to assist facilitate the process of exchanges on many aspects between the two countries.The dissertation is divided into five chapters as below.Chapter 1 explains research context, summary of related studies, significance, purpose and research methods of the study.Chapter 2 gives a general view of the architecture of the two works, including:building context, principles of construction,shape of the building and the current situation.Chapter 3 analyzes two specific architectural subjects, divided into two main structural components:the structure of the building and the typical works of the two architectures.Chapter 4 compares and contrasts the similarities and differences in the construction of two architectures with detailed explanation.Chapter 5 summarizes and concludes.The thesis the first time studies systematically the architecture of Hue Citadel and Beijing Forbidden City. After a thorough studying process, the thesis offers an in-depth review of the cultures of the two counties which contributes as favorable conditions for the cultural exchange between the two countries. In conclusion, this topic is significant in both theory and practice.