Gothic Style Architecture
Definition: a. Architecture
- Began with the architecture of the 12th century, at the height of the Middle Ages, when Europe was putting the memory of the “Dark Ages� behind it and moving into a radiant new era of prosperity and confidence. At the same time, Christianity was entering a new and triumphant phase of its history, and so the age of chivalry was also the time of building of the magnificent Gothic Cathedrals, such as those in the northern French towns of Chartres, Reims and Amiens.1 b. Art
- In the realm of painting the change to the new style became visible around a century after the first cathedrals rose. The most noticeable feature of the art of the Gothic period is its increased naturalism.2
Characteristics of Gothic Style: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.
Tall and grand designs Buttress Pointed Arches Vaulted Ceilings Large interiors and windows (light) Gargoyles 7. Emphasis on the decorative
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Builders: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
Stonecutters Architects Stained Glass painters Carpenters Masons
6. Quarrymen 7. Mortar Mixers 8. Scaffolders 9. Blacksmiths
Key Terms: Cathedral Floor Plan Spire Lancets Tympanum Pointed Arch Buttress Apse Transept Nave Choir Sanctuary Ambulatory Gargoyle Tracery
Pinnacle Finial Vault Rib vaulting Clerestory Oculus Chapels Crossing Impost Jamb Keystone Niche Rose Window
Cathedral Interior Space3
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Cathedral Floor Plan4
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References: "Gothic Architecture." Gothic Architecture. N.p., n.d. Web. 30 Sept. 2014. <http://www.cathedralquest.com/gothic_architecture.htm>. "Gothic architecture." Princeton University. N.p., n.d. Web. 30 Sept. 2014. <https://www.princeton.edu/~achaney/tmve/wiki100k/docs/Gothic_archit ecture.html>. "Gothic Cathedral Project." Gothic Cathedral Project. N.p., n.d. Web. 30 Sept. 2014. <http://www.newyorkcarver.com/stonecutters.htm>. "Gothic Painting (1280-1515)." WebMuseum:. N.p., n.d. Web. 30 Sept. 2014. <http://www.ibiblio.org/wm/paint/tl/gothic/>. "The Seven Key Characteristics of Gothic Architecture: From the Gargoyle to the Flying Buttress." The Seven Key Characteristics of Gothic Architecture:
From the Gargoyle to the Flying Buttress. N.p., n.d. Web. 30 Sept. 2014. <http://www.exploringcastles.com/characteristics_of_gothic_architecture.html#.VCqjIPldV8E>. "What is a gothic cathedral? | Cultural Travel Guide." Cultural Travel Guide RSS2. N.p., n.d. Web. 30 Sept. 2014. <http://www.culturaltravelguide.com/whatis-a-gothic-cathedral>.