Gothic Architecture Flashcards

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Questions and Answers

What were the basic characteristics of Gothic Architecture?

Stone structures, large expanses of glass, clustered columns, sharply pointed spires, intricate sculptures, ribbed vaults, and flying buttresses.

List some major Gothic sites.

Chartres, St. Denis, Paris, Beauvais.

What signifies the clear beginning of Gothic architecture?

A clear beginning around Paris during a time when the kings of France were becoming more powerful.

What is the Church of St. Denis known for?

It is the burial site of St. Denis, associated with many religious and political figures. Signup and view all the answers

Gothic architecture continued characteristics of __________ architecture.

Romanesque Signup and view all the answers

What are the basic characteristics of Gothic architecture considering structure, spatial planning, function, light, and religious beliefs?

Radiating chapels, buttresses, thicker walls, small windows, and colored glass. Signup and view all the answers

What are the theological motives in Gothic architecture?

New Testament references and Revelation 21. Signup and view all the answers

What does the Jesse Tree stained glass from St. Denis depict?

It shows Christ and the Virgin at the top of a tree of descendants beginning with Jesse. Signup and view all the answers

What is a pointed arch?

An arch with a varying angle allowing more flexibility, producing less lateral thrust and suggesting verticality. Signup and view all the answers

What are characteristics/advantages of the pointed arch compared to round arches?

More structurally efficient, more versatile, and allows for shallower arches with less lateral thrust. Signup and view all the answers

What was significant about St. Peter at Beauvais?

It was the tallest of the French cathedrals, although only the choir remains. Signup and view all the answers

What characterizes High Gothic Architecture?

Clerestory windows grow while the triforium shrinks, creating a more open wall that emphasizes verticality. Signup and view all the answers

What is notable about Notre Dame, Chartres?

It is the first High Gothic building and an important site of the cult of the Virgin. Signup and view all the answers

How does Notre Dame, Amiens represent High Gothic Architecture?

It represents the consummation of High Gothic architecture. Signup and view all the answers

What is depicted in the central bay of the North porch of Notre Dame?

Jamb statues depicting biblical figures, such as St. Peter. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Characteristics of Gothic Architecture

Defined by stone structures, large glass expanses, clustered columns, pointed spires, intricate sculptures, ribbed vaults, and flying buttresses.
Utilizes ogival (pointed) arches for structural efficiency and height.

Major Gothic Sites

Significant locations include Chartres, St. Denis, Paris, and Beauvais, particularly linked with French royalty.

Origins of Gothic Architecture

Emerged around Paris during the rise of powerful French kings.
Churches often have single or no towers, reflecting the varying resources required for construction and the time involved.

Church of St. Denis

Burial site of St. Denis, apostle and symbolic protector of France, associated with figures like Charlemagne.
Marks the beginning of Gothic architecture through its facade and ambulatory.
Represents noble work dedicated to God, symbolizing an entrance to the heavens, connecting the cathedral to Christ.
Earliest elements built by Abbot Suger indicate the inception of Gothic style.

Continuity and Change from Romanesque Architecture

Retains emphasis on main entrances, narrative continuity, sense of height, symmetry, and stone use.
Differentiates from Romanesque by lighter stone usage, efficiency, introduction of stained glass, and ambulatory features.

Key Characteristics in Relation to Structure and Light

Features radiating chapels and requires thick walls with small windows to support roof weight.
Prominent use of colored glass enhances spiritual brightness and visual storytelling.

Theological Motives

Influenced by the New Testament, particularly Revelation 21, reflecting religious themes in design.

Stained Glass at St. Denis

Notable for the Jesse Tree, depicting Christ and the Virgin at the top of a descendant tree.
Colored glass was a costly and rare material, emphasizing its artistic and financial value.

Structural Innovations

Pointed arches allow for design flexibility with reduced lateral thrust, promoting vertical aesthetics.
Rib vaults facilitate faster construction, requiring centering only for ribs.
Flying buttresses provide structural support against lateral forces, allowing for larger windows and walls.

Tallest French Cathedral

St. Peter at Beauvais was noted for its height but now retains only its choir.

High Gothic Architecture

Exemplified by Notre Dame buildings in Paris, Chartres, and Amiens.
Characterized by enlarged clerestory windows and reduced triforium space for open walls emphasizing vertical extensions.

Chartres Cathedral

Recognized as the first High Gothic structure, significant for its cult of the Virgin and the relic of the Tunic of the Virgin.
Functions central to religious, economic, educational, and political life in burgeoning towns.
Contains a facade that reflects both Romanesque and Gothic elements, showcasing the evolution of architectural styles.

Notre Dame, Amiens

Represents the culmination of High Gothic architecture, known for its scale and design.

Noteworthy Features of Notre Dame

Central bay statues depict biblical figures, including St. Peter, enriching the narrative and spiritual symbolism.

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Description

Test your knowledge on the key characteristics and major sites of Gothic Architecture. This quiz covers essential elements, historical significance, and notable examples such as Chartres and St. Denis. Perfect for students and enthusiasts of architectural history.