The Gothic Revival Period: Renewal of Medieval Architecture

The Gothic Revival period, also known as the Neo-Gothic period, is a fascinating chapter in the history of architecture that began in the late 18th century and persisted through the 19th century. This conscious movement aimed to revive the Gothic architectural style, which had been declining in popularity since the Middle Ages. Over time, the revival of Gothic forms became a prominent feature of 19th-century architecture, reflecting a broader cultural admiration for medieval aesthetics.

A Brief Timeline of Gothic Architecture

To better understand the revival of Gothic architecture, it is helpful to examine its origins and evolution:

1144: Gothic architecture begins with the Basilica of Saint-Denis in Paris, France. This marked the start of a new architectural style characterized by pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and flying buttresses. Gothic Survival: Following the rise and fall of Gothic architectural styles, it continued to thrive in various European regions. Notable examples include:

- St-Eustache in Paris (1532–1633)

- Lincoln's Inn Chapel in London (1620–1823) - The Cathedral of St Columb in Londonderry (1628–1633) - Sir Christopher Wren's Tom Tower for Christ Church College in Oxford University - Nicholas Hawksmoor's west towers of Westminster Abbey

The Birth of Gothic Revival

The Gothic Revival began in 1747 with the reconstruction of Strawberry Hill House, built by writer Horace Walpole. This project initiated a resurgence of Gothic-style architecture, blending medieval aesthetics with contemporary tastes.

Evolving Definitions of Gothic Revival

The Gothic Revival style is a unique blend of architectural elements from the Middle Ages, reflecting a romantic and picturesque movement in the 19th century. It differs from its predecessors, such as the Greek Revival, which drew inspiration from classical forms of ancient Greece and Rome. Key features of Gothic Revival architecture include:

Pointed arches Steeply pitched roofs and front-facing gables with delicate wooden trim Gothic tracery windows and entries Castle-like towers and parapets Carpenter Gothic style featuring vertical board and batten wooden siding and incised wooden trim

Influence on Various Architectural Styles

The Gothic Revival influenced not only architecture but also other fields, including furniture, decorative arts, and jewelry. Gothic Revival buildings can be found from rural settings to urban spaces, often characterized by their intricate details and harmonious integration with the surrounding landscape.

Impact on Literature and Culture

The Gothic Revival was not isolated to architecture but was part of a broader cultural trend known as medievalism. Works of literature, porcelain, and interior decoration often mirrored the medievalist aesthetic, contributing to the revival of Gothic styles in various forms of art and design.

Modern Revival and Future Prospects

While the number of new Gothic Revival buildings declined sharply after the 1930s, the style continues to be influential. Examples include the construction of the Cathedral of Bury St. Edmunds between the late 1950s and 2005. Contemporary architects continue to draw inspiration from Gothic Revival principles, adapting them to modern contexts, such as the Collegiate Gothic style for educational buildings.

Conclusion

The Gothic Revival period stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of medieval architectural styles. From its humble beginnings in the 18th century to its prominent role in 19th-century architecture, the Gothic Revival continues to influence modern design and cultural trends.