Art_Romaticism

I will compare Erechtheum, a classical Greek temple architecture, and Lincoln Cathedral, a medieval gothic cathedral, in such ways as their formal and stylistic characteristics, major architectural innovations, and the symbolism of each, including their integral sculptures. I will also let you know what I found most interesting and appealing in each style. Erechteum was built between 421 and 405 BC, on the acropolis of Athens. It was home to the olivewood statue of Athena that was central to the Panathenaea festivals (netplaces.com). When Athena’s birthday came it was celebrated by carrying a gown made by a group of women through the town then draped over the wooden statue. Lincoln Cathedral was built in 1072, overcoming a fire in 1141 and an earthquake in 1185. Its primary purpose is the opus dei, the daily round of prayer and worship of Almighty God from which all other activities draw their inspiration (lincolncathedral.com). Erechtheum is made up of ionic columns, which are referred to as The Woman Style Column, because of curls in the capitol. Lincoln Cathedral was reconstructed several times due to an earthquake in 1185, the central tower collapsed in 1237 after little experience using new architecture. Saint Hugh used pointed arches and ribbed vaults which have contributed to the elegance and possibility of large stained windows. Gothic vaults were heavy, that had a big outward and downward pressure that made the walls go out and ceiling crashed. This problem was solved with later innovations. Some Gothic innovations that helped improve architecture were the development of ribbed vaulting, which helped support the vaulted ceiling surface. This invention decreased the weight of the ceiling vault and could not be supported by the ribs. This also made it possible to build tall, thin-walled buildings and reinforce them. Greek innovations consisted of great engineering. They had the great ability of being able to manipulate space by transforming an individual’s perception of the space. Obvious symbolism of Lincoln Cathedral was the structure shaped like a cross to symbolize the belief of the death of Jesus. Their breathtaking material appearance is a symbol of the Christian faith, as they literally try to reach heaven. Their orientation East-West is an expression of man's advancement towards God (medieval-spell.com). The Greeks architectural design characteristics consist of order, beauty and balance. Their temples reflected their religious beliefs in the gods, symmetry, and beauty. Greek architecture serves as inspiration for the ancient Roman, Renaissance, and Neoclassical architecture (much of which has dictated government buildings and public architecture across Europe and the US). (cfa.arizona.edu) The thing I found most interesting in Classical Greek Architecture was how they worked towards precision and excellence of workmanship in building their architecture. The details in the columns and how they can be identified in the way they are constructed. The Gothic style was said to have glorified God and humbled man. This style was chosen more rather than other styles, buildings such as town halls, royal palaces, courthouses, hospitals, castles, bridges, and fortresses reflected Gothic ideas. Both architectural are very interesting and have some great detailing to its many representation.