Architecture. Зайцева И.В. - 28 стр.

2 What architectural elements characterize great Gothic cathedrals?
       Gothic architecture raised buildings to soaring heights, stressing the vertical
principle throughout in the compositional rhythm of all parts of the structure. At the
technical level Gothic architecture is characterized by the pointed arch, the ribbed vault,
the development of the exterior flying buttress, gradual reduction of the walls to a
system of richly decorated fenestration. Gothic cathedrals depended for their enrichment
chiefly upon sculpture and stained glass.
3 How does the classification of the Gothic phases differ in France, Germany and
England?
      It is generally said that in France and Germany this style is subdivided into the
Early, High, and Late Gothic. The French middle phase is referred to as Rayonnant, the
late phase as Flamboyant. In English architecture the usual subdivisions are Early
English, Decorative, and Perpendicular.

4 What are the main features of Gothic architecture represented in the Rheims
Cathedral?
       The Rheims Cathedral, erected between 1211 and 1430, illustrates the main
features of Gothic architecture. An examination of the facade indicates certain qualities
inherent in Gothic church design. The lower portion of the facade contains huge portals
which prove to be grand and imposing entrance ways. Directly above the main portal a
huge rose window appears, flanked by monumental towers which reach far above the
main portion of the cathedral. The towers create vertical thrusts. The rose window and
the stained-glass windows along the cathedral’s sides flood the church with the tined
light providing luminous richness to the interior. Minor towers with decorative
pinnacles add accents to main tower, and niches containing religious statuary are
incorporated in the facade.


      2.9 Read the dialogue in pairs. Make up your own dialogues about other
architectural styles changing words in italics

A.: Let’s discuss the Gothic style.
B.: With pleasure. Primary this was the architecture of the pointed arch, the ribbed
vault, and the flying buttress, the stained-glass windows.
A.: What do you mean by the flying buttress?
B.: Do you mean to say that you don’t know? This is an arch or half-arch transmitting
the thrust of a vault or a roof from the upper part of an outer support.
A.: Oh, I see. But I think these are not isolated motifs. They act together and represent
buildings raised to soaring heights.
B.: You are quite right.

      2.10 Make up a report on one of styles of architecture. Try to make it
interesting for the audience