'Socrates the Ugly': lecture by Mark Cousins, 20th October, 2006

Extent: 2 digital files (3.41 GB)

Comprises audio recording of a lecture entitled 'Socrates the Ugly', given by Mark Cousins on the 20th October, 2006. The recordings consist of a digital preservation file (2.38 GB, .mpg format) and a digital access file (1.03 GB .mp4 format). Duration of access version: 54min 18sec.

Copyright: Architectural Association

Creator: Mark Cousins

Admin History: The recording is of the 1st lecture in the series entitled 'The Ugly', given by Mark Cousins as part of the AA Open Lecture series, 2006-2007. In this lecture Mark Cousins sets out the theme of this series. He discusses the discipline of physiognomy, illustrating his argument with reference to Zopyrus and to Socrates' reputed 'ugliness'. From there, Cousins arrives to the discussion of 'the imago'; semiotics and tactility in relation to beauty and ugliness. He states that from a metaphysical point of view beauty and ugliness cannot be seen as opposites. Cousins ends the lecture with an argument on body image and possession of one's own body.

Custodial History: Original recording (format unknown) was made by the AA Audio Visual Department and a digital copy (.iso format) has been retained on the department's servers since c2013.

Aquisition: Digital preservation and access copies were created by the AA Archives in 2021, using the digital file held by the the AA Audio Visual Department.

Archive Note: Catalogue description by Samanah Karimelahi

Publication Note: AA Events List, Autumn Term, Week 3, 16th - 20th October, 2006