The Patterns Of Gothic Architecture - 755 Words

Midway through the Medieval Period (750-1350) of Western European Culture there was shift to Gothic architecture. Before this, medieval Europe was dominated by the Romanesque style. Seeing that this is where Gothic architecture derived, they are very similar, apart from certain added characteristics. Amongst these are pointed arches and cross/groin-ribbed vaults in contrast to the previous rounded arches and barrel vaults. The design gave way to taller more massive structures, and stained glass windows by way of flying buttresses, yet another key feature of the Gothic style. Beyond this, the architectural patterns of Gothic structures serve an educational purpose as well. Therefore, we will explore both the symbolic and conventional†¦show more content†¦A gargoyle is a spout carved in the shape of a grotesque figure, which hang over the roof of a structure. These decorative additions are symbolic of evil, and they are placed on the outside of the church to represent the chur ch as a place sacred ground. Otherwise, they serve a functional purpose to remove rainwater from the gutters. Some of the most famous examples are seen on the Notre Dame Cathedral. Here, they take many forms including, but not limited to, a variety of birds, dragons, and other mythical creatures. One of the most well-known cathedrals is that of Notre Dame de Chartres in France. It follows the theme of the church as the center of the town. It follows the traditional Latin-cross plan with corresponding parts—nave, choir, ambulatory, transept, and vestibule. What sets this cathedral apart from all the others is the labyrinth design on its floor symbolizing a follower’s walk towards redemption. This pattern surrounds a rose, a mark of the Virgin Mary, claiming it as her church. Also, some of the most beautiful stain glass pieces are found at Notre Dame. In fact, they were removed from the walls during the World Wars so that they may not be ruined. The Medieval period is ch aracterized by the establishment of new architectural features based off of the gothic style. This style is more raw and naturalistic than the previous, Romanesque. People often argue whether or not the Gothic style is crude orShow MoreRelatedSaint Brigid s Centre For The Arts1657 Words   |  7 PagesThe Romans’ most greatest techniques of architectures were influenced by its of the Etruscans and has developed three architectural features: arch, dome and vault in the 1st century BC. Romanesque architecture has characteristically elements: Semi-circular arch, Barrel vaulting of the nave, thick buttress walls and Gothic architecture has three elements which came together in Gothic period: Pointed arch, Ribbed vault and Flying buttress. Among Architecture terms, a vault is an arch- shaped structureRead MoreDifferences Between Eastern And Western European Architectural Styles1223 Words   |  5 PagesGothic architecture is often characterized just by the visual aspects that define it; however, there is much deeper influence in the structure and form of the style. The term is sometimes used to define a time period, but some critics believe there is no true definition of the term gothic. The style has evolved from many different things throughout history, and its influence is still evident throughout buildings in Europe. Gothic architecture and different styles of architecture can commonly beRead MoreGothic Architecture During the Middle Ages Essays1234 Words   |  5 PagesGothic architecture a new style developing from an old style of architecture with similar characteristics and in a way different. Architects wanted to build bigger buildings with stronger walls something that could not be found elsewhere. The o ld buildings did not have windows they were dark places that in order to get light they needed many candles. Not even the candles could give the right amount of light the buildings needed. The middle ages architects wanted big windows on the buildings and thisRead MoreThe Cathedral Of Saint Etienne1275 Words   |  6 Pagestechniques namely the arch; â€Å"which had allowed Roman architects to span wider spaces than with the post and lintel system with fewer supports, thus allowing more openness into the structure and instilling a more fluid feeling of space into the architecture† (Kloss, 2005). The arch’s principle was developed in order to construct domes expanding the interior space allowing for more light. Kloss (2005) describes the interior of the Abbey of Saint Etienne and points out its Romanesque characteristicsRead MoreAnalysis of the Romansque Style of Architecture1451 Words   |  6 Pages References â€Æ' Architecture affirms the wealth and culture of a society. The Romanesque style is a little like Roman architecture. Gothic architecture structures were beautifully made and offered the light of the new world to be shared. Both styles can be regarded as revolutions in building styles. By comparing the Romanesque and Gothic Architectural styles, I found that both styles were popular in the middle Ages, although Romanesque was first and later evolved into the Gothic style. Founded byRead MoreComparison of Two Historical Art Periods1131 Words   |  5 Pages Comparison of Two Historical Art Periods: Middle Ages (Gothic) and Renaissance Architecture Christina Plunkett Western Governors University IWT1 Humanities Task 1 Gothic style came about in the middle of the twelfth century. It was named after the Goths that controlled France during that time. It was developed as a result of Christian ideals. Christian leaders wanted big, tall, ornate churches to represent their strong faith. Later it was also used for non-religious buildingsRead MoreRomanesque Cathedral And Gothic Cathedrals1257 Words   |  6 PagesWe’re looking at the difference between Romanesque cathedrals and Gothic cathedrals. I know you all are so excited to learn what a flying buttress is because I know I was. Spoiler alert, it is nothing like what it sounds like. It’s much more cool and innovative, which is what these two periods were all about. Taking knowledge from the past and improving it. After Charlemagne’s death in 814, a terrible and dark period of cultural decline and terror ensued. It took a long time for the terror to endRead MoreEssay on Medieval Art1111 Words   |  5 Pagesmedieval architecture. Gothic art, the final period of the Middle Age art began in the Romanesque period around the twelfth century and went on until the sixteenth century. Artwork form these four periods all consist of distinct styles setting them apart from one another. Celto-Germanic The earliest remains from the Celto-Germanic period consisted of mainly bronze workÂâ€"bracelets, armbands, broaches, swords, and purse covers. The styles in which samples are crafted involve geometric patterns whichRead More Medieval Art Essay1064 Words   |  5 Pagesmedieval architecture. Gothic art, the final period of the Middle Age art began in the Romanesque period around the twelfth century and went on until the sixteenth century. Artwork form these four periods all consist of distinct styles setting them apart from one another. Celto-Germanic   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The earliest remains from the Celto-Germanic period consisted of mainly bronze work—bracelets, armbands, broaches, swords, and purse covers. The styles in which samples are crafted involve geometric patterns whichRead MoreAnalysis of american gothic Essay1189 Words   |  5 Pagesï » ¿ American Gothic – writing assignment I Description: In the painting we see two people. We see the farmer holding a hayfork and beside him is a woman. The woman is most likely his daughter. The couple stands in front of a house styled by the â€Å"Carpenter Gothic† era. The sun is shining but the couple don’t look like they appreciate the weather or â€Å"something else†. They both look very stretched in their faces. The man has a long head and his mouth is like a parenthesis on the wrong side. The woman