Frank Lloyd Wright was one of the most influential architects of the modern era, renowned both in his native America and internationally for his impact on the architecture of the twentieth century and beyond. This course will examine the way that Wright’s thought was shaped by his youth and training, and explore how he both built upon and broke with these foundations. To clarify what 'modernism' might have meant in an American context, we will concentrate on Wright’s own writings, as well as the most important critical literature written on the architect over the past century. During the seminar, we will draw on our investigation of Wright’s architecture and philosophy in various writing assignments which will help you cultivate your critical writing and thinking skills. These exercises will include brief response papers, peer reviews, in-class workshops, and a short research paper.