Complexity and contradiction in Le Corbusier

In 1966 Robert Venturi publishes Complexity and Contradiction in Architecture. This book represents one of the most serious allegations against the limitations of the modern architecture. Conceived as a visual essay, with a collection of examples from different times and places, the text of Venturi denotes a strong hostility against the functionalist positions of the orthodox Modern architecture. Paradoxically, in the book of Venturi, Le Corbusier appears as the most mentioned architect and the Villa Savoye-by surprise-as the most quoted work. In opposition of the classical view of Le Corbusier's work, the analysis of Venturi represents a new fresh look and alternative view of his theoretical positions. Through his multiple strategies based on the phenomenology of complexity and contradiction, Venturi discovered the intense and vibrant architecture of Le Corbusier who, without ever renouncing his modern convictions, he didn't succumb to them.