When architecture took a turn
from using Roman style arches to using Greek style arches and had to be a
reason. Why? The need to build bigger
and better churches became a necessity.
In France the cathedrals were built on a massive scale. The structure itself was large, the ceilings
were high and the introduction of large stained glass became popular. In order to support these changes architects
needed to improve on the function and use of roman style arches. This is where we get the introduction to gothic
arches that are pointed and extremely high which is totally different from
styles used before.
The
basic desire was to build a cathedral that will be worthy of being occupied by
god. In order for the architects to
reach this goal buildings had to be elevated.
Making these buildings higher required more cement being used. These gothic churches were built higher than
buildings previously built by roman architects.
Since the size and height of these new buildings were different than the
way buildings were previously built new methods had to be introduced. Adams tells us, “Unlike round arches, pointed
arches can theoretically be raised to any height regardless of the distance
between their supports. The pointed arch is thus a more flexible building element,
with more potential for increased height. Dynamically and visually, the thrust
is far more vertical than that of a round arch.” Once you see the end product
that comes from gothic architecture compared to that and a product that comes
from Romanesque architecture. It’s clear
that the pointed arches win, and this idea gives the parishioner the feeling of
being in the house and god.
The
next idea used in making the church the home of god found a great way to not
only use but show the space that’s been created. Therefore lighting and decorating these
cathedrals became more important. The
lighting of these cathedrals accomplished a few things. It gave the feeling that god was in the
building, depicted stories of everyday life and gave the large walls a grand
purpose. Adam writes, “This is
consistent with the symbolic role of light as a divine presence in Christian
churches.”
So it
seems the main difference between building techniques used by roman architects
and Greek architects if the size of the buildings. This elevation in building Heights was
accomplished with the use of pointed arches.
Using the pointed archers aided in making the walls larger. The large walls made it possible for the
installation of beautifully stained glass windows. The end result is a large cathedral with
extremely high ceilings and stained glass windows aid in making a true house of
god
Courtney
" get the point"
