TwoCents | The Architecture of Persistence

“Earth is the element of substance. The people of the Earth Kingdom are diverse and strong. They are persistent and enduring” The earth kingdom is everywhere. In the world of the avatar and spirits; where some people breathe fire, and others glide on air and others on water, the most prominent of the benders are the masters of the element: earth. The divided and expansive territory of the earth Nation sprawls and remains; unmoving like the grounds beneath our feet. Although the earth benders are not fond of non-concrete ideals, they are predisposed to values that pervade their varying lifestyles all the same. The Architecture throughout their territory is no different; shaped in multiple contortions of defiance - in one way or another their key principle remains to be still, enduring and persistent like rocks perched through different seasons. After exploring The architecture of the air benders, we turn now to the depiction of the values of the Earth nation in their built landscape. A Nation of Contrasts: From Humble Homes to Fortified Cities Unlike the unified aesthetic of the Air Nomads, Earth Kingdom architecture is a tapestry woven from contrasting threads. Scattered throughout the vast landscape are simple, functional homes built from locally available materials like mud-brick and wood. These dwellings, often nestled amongst rolling hills or nestled within fertile valleys, embody the practical nature of the Earth Kingdom people, their lives intrinsically tied to the land they cultivate. In stark contrast to the village settlements that dot the landscape are imposing fortresses and fortified cities like Ba Sing Se, the impregnable capital, and Omashu, the seat of King Bunmi. Their towering walls, seemingly impervious to attack, are a testament to the Earth Kingdom's emphasis on security and stability. Typically the cities are designed within concentric rings of sturdy walls or pyramid-like masses, security becoming increasingly detailed as one progresses past each wrung. The very act of carving a metropolis into a mountainside would naturally indicate their deep connection to the earth, but much like earth kingdom ornamentation, this is largely a pragmatic element. They are masters of making do with the readily available minerals their bending allows them to manipulate. This is not to say that the architecture is crude or brutish; the ornate inner cities of Ba Sing Se, Omashu and even the Fortress of General Fong are delicately dressed in gold and precious stones. There is however an overlying hierarchy of expression. In the outer cities and villages; brutal simplicity obtains and in the innermost secure hearts of the kingdom the jewels are held in earthen security much like the ores and jewels of the planet. Respect for Hierarchy and Tradition The Earth Kingdom's social structure, with the Daoguang Dynasty as a clear influence, is reflected in their architecture. Grand palaces, like the Royal Palace in Ba Sing Se, with their expansive courtyards and intricate carvings, represent the monarchy's power and authority. Stepping down the social ladder, we see the homes of nobles and merchants, often grander than those of commoners, yet still adhering to traditional styles and materials. This consistency demonstrates a respect for established hierarchies, a value deeply ingrained in Earth Kingdom society. Ancestral Legacy Etched in Stone The Earth Kingdom places great emphasis on honouring its ancestors and preserving its rich history. This is evident in the elaborate mausoleums and temples scattered throughout the land. These structures, often carved into mountainsides or built upon elevated platforms, serve as a physical link between the past and the present. The mausoleums, with their imposing statues and intricate murals, pay homage to past leaders and heroes, ensuring their memory lives on. Similarly, temples dedicated to various earthbending masters and deities are built with a sense of permanence, their very materials – stone and metal – symbolizing the enduring values of the Earth Kingdom. Despite their focus on security and tradition, the Earth Kingdom also demonstrates a deep respect for the elements they bend. Gardens, often incorporated into courtyards and plazas, provide pockets of tranquillity within bustling cities. These green spaces, featuring meticulously sculpted rocks and meticulously arranged plants, reflect the Earth Kingdom's understanding of the importance of balance and harmony with the natural world. However, this respect for nature is often tempered by a utilitarian approach.  Massive walls surrounding cities and sprawling resource-extraction operations reveal a pragmatic side. They understand the power and potential of the earth, utilizing it not only for defence and construction but also for industry and technological advancement. Their technological advancement is often delayed however, as they are more keen on using what already works for as long as possible. For centuries, the city of Omashu relied on a semi-manual formal method of package delivery, for example. Along designated paths up the pyramid-like City, Slides propelled by gravity andearthbending cascade downwards carrying rocky sleds containing goods (or avatars looking for troublesome fun). This resistance to change informs the detailed solidity of their Structures but it also plays a part (along with the numerous polities not unified) in the slight lag in development when compared to the fire nation. The People of the Earth Kingdom are Diverse The Earth Kingdom's vastness fosters regional variations in architecture. Omashu, a desert city, utilizes baked clay and adobe construction techniques, reflecting its arid climate. Kyoshi Island, heavily influenced by its Fire Nation neighbours, incorporates elements of both cultures, with traditional wooden structures standing alongside defensive earthen walls. These variations showcase the Earth Kingdom's adaptability while highlighting the unifying principles that bind this diverse nation. The Earth Kingdom's architecture stands as a testament to their enduring values – a commitment to security, a respect for tradition, and a deep connection to the earth itself. By delving into their varied structures, we gain valuable insights into the relationship between a society's morals and the physical world they create. As we move on to explore the other nations, we will see how fire, water, and The swamp and sand benders are each represented in their architectural choices.

Other insights from Joshua Omoijiade