Ingersoll, Richard2009-06-042009-06-041988Herman, Gregory Scott. "Erich Mendelsohn and discontinuity of expression (Germany, Architecture)." (1988) Master’s Thesis, Rice University. <a href="https://hdl.handle.net/1911/13287">https://hdl.handle.net/1911/13287</a>.https://hdl.handle.net/1911/13287The problem of discontinuity in the work of the German architect Erich Mendelsohn (1887-1953) is redefined through a closer look at the biographical context and a critique of the established historiography. Mendelsohn's Jewish status, artistic background, and education are discussed as conditions in the transition to a more professional attitude. The role of the avant garde is considered for its spiritual and artistic influences, and Mendelsohn's sketches are analysed as a uniquely artistic method of composition. The Einsteinturm, the climax of his Expressionist period, is the point of departure for his subsequent buildings. The influence of the Neue Sachlichkeit and the importance of Richard Neutra are shown to be instrumental in Mendelsohn's metamorphosis. Historians have either embraced Mendelsohn and his early Expressionism, or rejected him completely, rather than trying to comprehend his transition to professionalism and his compromise with urban circumstances.179 ppapplication/pdfengCopyright is held by the author, unless otherwise indicated. Permission to reuse, publish, or reproduce the work beyond the bounds of fair use or other exemptions to copyright law must be obtained from the copyright holder.ArchitectureBiographiesFine artsThesisRICE2836reformatted digitalThesis Arch. 1988 Herman