Why Is Gothic Architecture Good?
Gothic architecture, which is marked most frequently by tall pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and flying buttresses, found its prominence in the high and late medieval period. Many of its architecture elements, including its emphasis on verticality and light use, are considered positive signature elements of the Gothic architectural style. One need only consider the façade of the great cathedral of Notre Dame, in Paris, with its exquisite beauty and elegance, to easily reflect on the positive nature of Gothic architecture.
Gothic architecture is good because it does not amount to merely a building, but rather that the structure contains thematic elements which elicit a variety of emotions. Its signature elements are intended to draw people up from the mundane, to look up toward their Creator, and experience light and sunshine, even within a building. Let’s take a look at these thematic elements that make architecture good one by one.
Awe-Inspiring Height of Gothic Architecture
One of the greatest characteristics of Gothic architecture and one key answer to why is Gothic architecture good is height, both as measured from foundation to the top of its highest tower, and also in proportion to its width. The height is not simply awe-inspiriting when viewing this architecture from the outside, but from examining internal vaults, which tower to up to and even over 100 feet.
In addition to interior height, Gothic cathedrals feature external towers and spires of incredible height. Many of these cathedrals feature multiple towers arranged in such a way as to emphasize the extraordinary height of the building. Such height can give Gothic architecture the label “good,” because height says majesty and wonder. Height speaks to the brilliance of design, construction, decoration, and even longevity, and certainly qualifies Gothic architecture as “good.”
Emphasizing the Vertical with Gothic Architecture
To enhance height and majesty, Gothic architecture emphasizes everything that is vertical. Use of pointed arches and decorative interior elements point a viewer upward, and suit the worshipful emphasis of the structures. Such vertical emphasis is good because it is intended to draw one from the worldly to the eternal and heavenly. On the outside of the buildings, verticality continues to be a strong characteristic in columns, long narrow windows, molding, buttresses, pinnacles, and again towers.
Windows for Natural Light
One of the most unique and defining characteristics of Gothic architecture is the use, size, and placements of windows to optimize natural light. In Gothic architecture, windows are not simply windows – they are decorative pieces in and of themselves, with embellished framing and panes, and of course signature stained glass, which adds color to light within Gothic cathedrals. These windows allow for the telling of Biblical stories and again undergird the overall theme of the structure itself – to point people to God. It is again for this use of light through windows that Gothic architecture might be dubbed “good.”
Gothic Architecture Is Simply Majestic
Gothic architecture is simply majestic, and hence considered beautiful and good. The Notre Dame cathedral in Paris is perhaps the most famous and best examples of majesty in facades of the Gothic era. Scenes, molding, and ornamental elements lend to the majesty and beauty of this and other Gothic structures.