Gothic Architecture in England vs. Gothic Architecture in France Essay by Top Papers

The following paper will discuss the differences and similarities between gothic architecture in England and gothic architecture in France and argue that, while the two styles or schools can be differentiated in many ways, the one thing that they each have in common is that each one sought to impress upon the credulous, God-fearing worshipper the might of God and the might of the Church which, in its earthly form, served as God's emissary. To gain a proper appreciation of gothic symbolism, however, a great deal of context is required and many different things will have to be touched upon. Specifically, the next several pages will define the concept, "gothic," will briefly define "gothic" architecture, will describe/define gothic architecture as it manifested itself in England and France, and will take some time to highlight the Romanesque influences (and Islamic influences) which made possible what we now know today as "classic" gothic architecture. With these matters resolved, the paper will discuss why the gothic style would have been adopted in both England and in France (besides the obvious desire to glorify the Christian God) and the distinctions that exist between English and French gothic architecture (they are rather substantial) will be highlighted along with any similarities which might exist to link the two.