Life in Medieval Europe

MEDIEVALNOT MEDIEVAL

Feudalism

Medieval Christian Art & Architecture

• In a time of turmoil, cathedrals represented unity, coherence, and harmony

What elements/characteristics might we see in Medieval Architecture?

Chartres Cathedral

Construction

• $• Taxes• Years of construction

West FacadeNorth Tower1507-13

South Tower c. 1160

Royal Portalc. 1145-55

Rose Window

ChartresCruciform Plan

nave crossing

transept

transept

choir apsenarthex

porch

porch

ambulatory

chapels

aisle

aisle

west portal

Nave

Elevation of Nave

Symbolism in Chartres

• Clerestory: you gaze forward and upward

• Little decoration – focus on shafts and arches

Flying Buttresses

Vault

Royal Portal

Royal Portal

• West façade, c. 1145-55

• Christ Enthroned in Royal Majesty dominates the central tympanum

• Calm and order prevail in the imagery of the Royal

Portal in contrast to the somewhat more crowded imagery at many Romanesque churches

Royal Portal• Christ in the central tympanum appears imposing

but more benign than earlier representationsRoyal Portal, Chartres Cathedralc. 1145-55

West Portal, Cathedral of Saint-Lazarec. 1120-35