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Gothic and Romanesque architecture style question.?
Desbribe the difference b/t the gothic and romanesque style of architecture as typified in churches. In clude the structural issues if possible. Tk you a lot
Public Comments
- no idea
- Romanesque architecture is known by its massive quality, its thick walls, round arches, sturdy piers, groin vaults, large towers and decorative arcading. Each building has clearly defined forms and they are frequently of very regular, symmetrical plan so that the overall appearance is one of simplicity when compared with the Gothic buildings that were to follow. The style can be identified right across Europe, despite regional characteristics and different materials.
- Good question! Romanesque church style: If you look at many of the traditional Roman Catholic churches today, you'll see the Roman style influence, that is, the Basilica plan (see link) . If you look at the cross of Jesus' crucifixion, you'll notice the long vertical pillar and the horizontal pillar connected towards the top-end of the vertical pillar. That is how many of the Roman churches were planned and since, still designed that way. The Romans were the first to invent the Romanesque Arch (with the curve). Design-wise, the engineering was forefront for their time (as were many Roman ideas). It was designed to hold the weight of bricks, stones, cement, etc. in bridges and ceilings alike. You'll also notice the simple plan of the Roman style. It reminds me of Lego blocks: stacked, symmetrical, and simple. It included classical elements like columns (i.e. doric, ionic, and corinthian), pediments, and occasionally domes. http://www.cartage.org.lb/en/themes/arts/Architec/MiddleAgesArchitectural/EarlyChristianByzantine/BasilicaPlanChurches/oldstpetersplan.gif Gothic church style: I like to call it the "Flamboyant Roman style" because it intentionally evokes emotion to the viewer or perish member. During the late medieval times in Europe, namely France, church authorities wanted to 'intensify' the church-going experience by basically scaring the bajesus out of the citizens, wanting to draw them into church. The Judgement of God was a constant theme during this time. God wasn't thought of as a merciful God, but a wrathful and fearful supreme being. Ultimately, this was enough to get more people in the church to reconcile their salvation. They successfully did this by raising the height of the traditional church, pointing the Roman arches, ribbing the vaults (to allow for the extra massive weight), and extending the noticable flying buttresses (external side support for the walls). Gothic churches are most noticably recognized by their pointed spires reaching up to the heavens (the closer, the better!). The Roman basilica plan was the same, except for some exceptional dramatic changes. http://www.bc.edu/bc_org/avp/cas/fnart/arch/gothic/gothic.jpg I'd offer an extended version, but I don't think you'd fancy reading it all on Answers. So instead, here are some links to help you on your way. :) Cheers! Roman: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Basilica Gothic: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gothic_architecture
