Definition for Gothic
From Biology Forums Dictionary
Gothic style (12th to 13th centuries) in architecture took many forms, but we know it best through the Gothic cathedral, exemplified by the pointed, lancet, or Gothic arch. In its synthesis of intellect, spirituality, and engineering, the cathedral perfectly expresses the medieval mind. Gothic cathedrals use refined, upward-striving lines to symbolize humanity’s yearning to escape the bounds of earth and enter the mystery of space (the kingdom of heaven). The pointed arch symbolizes Gothic spirituality and engineering practicality. The control of stresses made possible by the Gothic arch allows for larger clerestory windows and more interior light. In Germany one finds a kind of Gothic construction called hallenkirchen, whose side aisles rise to the full height of the nave, unlike traditional Gothic style wherein the aisles are lower than the nave in order to accommodate clerestory windows in upper walls of the nave. Gothic sculpture portrays serenity, idealism, and simple naturalism. It has a human quality portraying life as valuable, Christ as a benevolent teacher, and God as awesome in his beauty rather than in his vengeance. Visual images carry over a distance with greater distinctness, and the figures of Gothic sculpture—still predominantly associated with churches—are less entrapped in their material away from their backgrounds than their predecessors.