Gothic Architecture :: essays research papers

black letter and Romanesque Style Arch. Represented primarily by dint of cathedrals, Romanesque andGothic way of lifes of architecture were some of the few symbols ofcivilization in the meagreness stricken and often depressing MiddleAges. These cathedrals represented faith, dedication, andcooperation a lucid 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 due tothe fact that lifestyles changed in the time between these iieras of architecture. Romanesque architecture was intentionalto be more for protective purposes than for any aestheticquality. The walls of Romanesque cathedrals were built verythickly, so as not to be ruined by invaders. Gothic, on theother hand, had thinner walls and worked towards a more delicate approach. Gothic cathedrals have many morebuttresses than Romanesque cathedrals. Gothic cathedralswere also designed with statues and sculptures on them suchas the gargoyle, which also served as a precipitate spout.Romanesque cathedrals had few windows, as the walls of thecathedrals were very thick and made the placement ofwindows exceedingly difficult. This lack of light seemed also toproject the general mentality and lifestyles of the good deal of theMiddle Ages. To brighten the cathedrals, they often addedmany wall paintings and mosaics. Contrary 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 reenforcement to theheavy construction of the walls and ceilings. In conclusion,Romanesque and Gothic styles of architecure helped to show