Question

Select the correct answer. Which famous Gothic cathedral represents a transition from an early Gothic style to a later, high Gothic style? A. Notre Dame B. Chartres Cathedral C. Salisbury Cathedral

Answer 1

Answer:

B. Chartres Cathedral

Explanation:

Gothic style became to be developed in the 8th century but was not a strong presence in Europe until the 12th century. It is an architecture style that represents the ascension from the sky. All the structure is designed to be tall and to achieve the sky. However, the first examples of Gothic in Europe (particularly in France and England) had reminiscences of the previous art style (the Romanesque). Chartres Cathedral is one of the first examples of Gothic architecture. Built-in the 12th century, this church has one of the first experiences of Gothic, such as:

• the Pointed Arch used in the entrance, even if is still rounded
• the tendency to create a sense of high, with windows that alternate between a small one and big one
• the use of intricate (not so complex) decoration and statues of Saints

However, Chartres Cathedral can be considered a transitional architectural style because, even if it uses the Gothic style, there are some points in the structure that maintain the Romanesque, such as a rounded arch, the absence of complex decoration in the building and the height of its towers, that are small in comparison of the churches that would be built in the next centuries.

Answer 2

Answer: B. Chartres Cathedral

Explanation: