Essay on Gothic Architecture

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Clayton Fraleigh 11/7/12 Journal VII Gothic Architecture Gothic architecture started in the early 12th century in France, during the medieval time period and ended around the 16th century. At this time Europe was segregated into many different city states and kingdoms, and each were competing with each other not only in trade but also in architecture. Architecture became very important, the more eloquent and lavish the buildings were, the wealthier that state was thought to be. At a time when there is a lot of different city states, the wealthiest one would attract the most people thus making it more powerful then other city states and kingdoms. Throughout France, Germany, and the United Kingdom many cathedrals and basilicas rose each with different gothic styles and elements.
The term Gothic is used to describe a culture which is rude and barbaric, which is portrayed in how the style of architecture was at the time. The most famous elements of gothic architecture at the time were the pointed arch, ribbed vault, and the flying buttress. The pointed arch, also called the ogival arch was derived from Islamic architecture. There are many structural advantages to the pointed arch, it allows for a rectangular roof, and it also pushes more weight onto the bearing columns. Because more weight can be put on the columns, it allows the buildings to be taller. An example of this would be the Salisbury Cathedral in Salisbury, England, it has the tallest spire in the United Kingdom, which is 404 ft tall. Height is a main characteristic of Gothic architecture, especially in cathedrals, suggesting an aspiration to Heaven. Another element of Gothic architecture is ribbed vaulting, it allows for more windows to be placed higher up in the church. Because the windows are higher up it suggests more room for saints and

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