The original idea of the Gothic style in architecture and art was to praise the Christian religion. This style developed from the Romanesque period, and it allowed the creation of many churches and cathedrals of an extraordinary design in European countries (Spanswick, 2015). The elements that were used in the building of this period, pointed arches, flying buttresses, ribbed vaulting, and stained-glass windows, allowed for a more spiritual experience for worshipers. For example, vaults with tipped ends indicated that these building components were pointed towards heaven, giving people a sense of connectedness to the divine. Furthermore, these arches played a role in accentuating the height of the building. The flying buttresses and ribbed vaulting not only supported the constructions but also allowed to move the entire weight laterally so that more light is brought into the center. Similarly, the stained-glass windows let natural light enter cathedrals and churches, highlighting Bible scenes on these windows. Since the light was associated with the heavenly power, Gothic architects emphasized the interiors of their works on miraculous light that seemed to descend miraculously from above to worshipers.
I agree that height and light can be considered the defining features of the Gothic style. Indeed, even before reviewing this week’s materials, I viewed cathedrals and churches built during this period as constructions intended to lead people’s gaze upward. Moreover, I noticed that you emphasized the divine role of light in Gothic architecture, and it was enabled by large windows with beautiful illustrations of Biblical stories. However, I do not think that the primary roles of pointed arches and flying buttresses were to allow more light to enter. Instead, I believe these elements helped support the building and remove weight from the center to the lateral sides.
Reference
Spanswick, V. (2015). Gothic architecture, an introduction. Smart History.