What is a defining characteristic of Modernism and Postmodernism?

• A. Modernism emphasizes simplicity, function, and new technology; Postmodernism embraces historical references, ornament, and irony.
• B. Modernism rejects ornament but embraces old styles; Postmodernism abandons function for decoration.
• C. Modernism and Postmodernism both avoid daylight and daylighting as primary concerns.
• D. Modernism seeks ornate decoration; Postmodernism seeks minimalism.

Answer: (A)

The idea being tested is how Modernism and Postmodernism differ in their approach to form, materials, and meaning. Modernism grows out of early 20th‑century ideals that form should follow function, with a focus on simplicity, clean lines, and new technologies and materials like steel, reinforced concrete, and glass. The goal is universal clarity and efficiency, often with minimal or no decorative ornament. Postmodernism emerges as a response to that austerity, reintroducing meaning through historical references, decoration, color, and irony to convey cultural context and wit. It treats ornament as a communicative tool rather than wasteful décor.

So, the statement that best captures both movements is that modernism emphasizes simplicity, function, and new technology, while postmodernism embraces historical references, ornament, and irony. The other options misstate these tendencies: modernism did not embrace old styles or heavy ornament, postmodernism does not abandon function for decoration, and concerns like daylighting aren’t the defining contrast between the two.