Gothic Architecture :: essays research papers

Gothic and Romanesque Style Arch. Represented primarily through cathedrals, Romanesque andGothic styles of architecture were some of the few symbols ofcivilization in the privation stricken and often depressing MiddleAges. These cathedrals represented faith, dedication, andcooperation a sane place in a world of anarchy. Gothic andRomanesque styles of architecture were related in variousways, yet they also contrasted in style in some ways.Romanesque and Gothic architecture, although having manysimilarities, also have many differences. This may be collect tothe fact that lifestyles changed in the time between these twoeras of architecture. Romanesque architecture was designedto be to a greater extent for protective purposes than for any aestheticquality. The walls of Romanesque cathedrals were built verythickly, so as not to be destroyed by invaders. Gothic, on theother hand, had thinner walls and worked towards a moreartistic approach. Gothic cathedrals have many morebuttresses th an Romanesque cathedrals. Gothic cathedralswere also designed with statues and sculptures on them suchas the gargoyle, which also served as a rain spout.Romanesque cathedrals had few windows, as the walls of thecathedrals were very thick and do the placement ofwindows extremely difficult. This lack of light seemed also toproject the general mentality and lifestyles of the people of theMiddle Ages. To brighten the cathedrals, they often addedmany wall paintings and mosaics. different to Romanesquearchitecture, Gothic had many stained glass windows, whichspread colored lighting, giving a feeling of peace. They alsodepicted biblical figures in the windows. Gothic style usedmany flying buttresses and pointed arches, whileRomanesque used rounded arches for added support to theheavy construction of the walls and ceilings. In conclusion,Romanesque and Gothic styles of architecure helped to show