February 19, 2007 5:44 AM

The Aesthetics of the Campus

People who visit or live on this campus always reflect on the beauty of the campus and remain duly astounded by it. I am among them. It is a commonplace to remark on the aesthetic quality of the campus. Cliche aside, it simply is the most beautiful campus I have ever seen, and I have seen quite a few. Yale's campus is brooding, for example, while Princeton's is auspicious. Many schools are predominately red brick. I suspect the mere authority of brick for that.

Nevertheless, Mercersburg proffers the viewer a particular beauty. One of the qualities or aspects that add to this particular beauty is the space between buildings and the large spaces that surround them, and being set, of course, in this gorgeous valley. Another quality, of course, is the diversity of the sorts of buildings--the architectural richness.

While many might first be drawn to the chapel for its dynamic profile mounting into the sky, I am fond of Traylor for its simple elegance.  The balance of the building, the symmetry and the stunning limestone, all contribute to its subtle beauty. The chapel, of course, is grand in its obvious ways. That it is a landmark in all directions adds to its aesthetic power.

 

The Burgin Center for the Arts also stands powerfully out from among its kin, while the Lenfest Library is unique in profile. Building after building, the school offers a range of architectural gems that allow for campus wide aesthetic richness.

The bountiful trees, well-placed and cared-for, add another layer of gorgeousness to the scene. There is, of course, sycamore lane with all its nobility. The flora of the campus constantly maintained by a diligent grounds crew demands admiration,  especially in the spring, though autumn can be stunning.

It is a place where one can actually begin to believe in the benevolence of nature. I suspect someone like Emerson would find this place compelling for its serenity. Of course it is beautiful, but stopping to say so on occasion is as essential as its beauty.