Gothic Architecture
Throughout history architecture has been the most prominent outward expression which defines an era. Whether it was the pyramids of Egypt or the ritualistic sites such as Stonehenge or Chichen Itza, they tell the story of the times.
These towering edifices of magnificent proportion naturally did not have the advantage of modern tools and equipment. Using ingenious structural components instead of overhead cranes, workers labored daily lifting heavy stone and putting each into place with brute strength and simple tools. It was not uncommon for an individual to labor his entire life as a construction worker and not see the finished project.
Gothic architecture reigned supreme from the 12th century well into the 16th century. …show more content…
Instead of the dark reputation that Gothic has today, when first introduced it was in a time of relative peace and prosperity. The massive windows and entrances were designed to bring light into the lives of the people.
Borrowing from the Roman, the Greek and the Islamic cultures a blending of each along with the innovation of the time, sets Gothic architecture apart as unique unto its own. One of the striking features of the Gothic style is the use of high pointed arches. With the purpose of adding structural integrity the arches relieved some of the stress on the tall thinner columns supporting the thrust. Thinner is a relative term, but compared to Roman and Greek pillars the enormous posts are considerably less in girth.
The design of incorporating slenderer support columns extended all the way to the ceiling. The continuation of the slimmer columns extends and is repeated in the upper levels of the nave. It is taken even further and becomes a part of the roof, therefore an integral part of the vault. This leverage allowed for bigger windows and more light to
Throughout history architecture has been the most prominent outward expression which defines an era. Whether it was the pyramids of Egypt or the ritualistic sites such as Stonehenge or Chichen Itza, they tell the story of the times.
These towering edifices of magnificent proportion naturally did not have the advantage of modern tools and equipment. Using ingenious structural components instead of overhead cranes, workers labored daily lifting heavy stone and putting each into place with brute strength and simple tools. It was not uncommon for an individual to labor his entire life as a construction worker and not see the finished project.
Gothic architecture reigned supreme from the 12th century well into the 16th century. …show more content…
Instead of the dark reputation that Gothic has today, when first introduced it was in a time of relative peace and prosperity. The massive windows and entrances were designed to bring light into the lives of the people.
Borrowing from the Roman, the Greek and the Islamic cultures a blending of each along with the innovation of the time, sets Gothic architecture apart as unique unto its own. One of the striking features of the Gothic style is the use of high pointed arches. With the purpose of adding structural integrity the arches relieved some of the stress on the tall thinner columns supporting the thrust. Thinner is a relative term, but compared to Roman and Greek pillars the enormous posts are considerably less in girth.
The design of incorporating slenderer support columns extended all the way to the ceiling. The continuation of the slimmer columns extends and is repeated in the upper levels of the nave. It is taken even further and becomes a part of the roof, therefore an integral part of the vault. This leverage allowed for bigger windows and more light to