Key Characteristics of Gothic Architecture

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What architectural changes were necessary in the shift from Romanesque to Gothic cathedrals in Europe and what inspirational changes influenced these changes? A. Plan of Investigation This investigation’s purpose is to analyze the changes in the architectural technique of the Romanesque style of architecture and come to a conclusion as to whether the shift in technique led to the rise of the more grandiose Gothic architecture in Europe. All art is inspired and the influences that caused the change in technique will also be investigated. In order to come to a conclusion I read books on the two styles I compared, studied some examples of each form of architecture through photographs, and listened to a few podcasts on the topic. Many of the sources were used were found online except for the book A Concise History of Western Architecture by R. Furneaux Jordan. B. Summary of Evidence The fall of the Roman Empire in 410 CE was seen as a light going out in Europe and the world being plunged into darkness. Beginning in 700 CE, architecture in Europe began to change dramatically in order “to recreate the glory of the past.” (Tripathi) This influx of support led leaders of churches to build structures that reflected the new prosperity and holiness of the Christian religion. Much grander buildings were required instead of the poorer quality shacks made of inferior stone, mortar, and rubble. Churches were seen as the most sacred of places as they were supposed to hold religious relics. The Romanesque style of architecture was predominant in Europe during the 11th and 12th century CE. The style is identified by its use of rounded arches and bulky frames and obvious inspiration from Roman architecture. Another defining characteristic is the c... ... middle of paper ... ...65 Romanesque Architecture." PMA: Medieval - Art Tour. Philadelphia Museum of Art, 10 Mar 2008. web. 20 November 2013. Prabhat. "Difference Between Gothic and Romanesque Architecture." Differencebetween.net. N.p., 24 Apr. 2011. Web. 01 Oct. 2013. . "Romanesque Architecture." Princeton.edu. Princeton University, n.d. Web. 29 Sept. 2013. . "Romanesque Architecture." Sacred-destinations.com. Sacred Destinations, n.d. Web. 29 Sept. 2013. . Tripathi, Rohit. "Romanesque and Gothic Architecture." Oocoties.org. N.p., n.d. Web. 01 Oct. 2013. .

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