How has the FASHION AND TECHNOLOGY of architecture changed the Cathedral?
Architecture played a very important role for the Winchester Cathedral in Medieval England.
The cathedrals started in the reign of William the Conqueror were the largest buildings seen in England up to that time. William appointed Norman bishops to these cathedrals. Therefore, these men would have been heavily influenced by the architecture used in Normandy and this style came to dominate the architecture of the cathedrals built under William.
The Crusades had a major impact on architecture. Many large castles and cathedrals were built by Edward I. He had been on a crusade and it is probable that he learned about improvements as a result of his experiences.
Gothic church architecture in Medieval England developed from Norman architecture. 'Gothic architecture' is the term used to describe building styles between 1200 to 1500. Gothic cathedrals are characterised by large towers and spires. Whereas Norman architecture can be seen as being 'dumpy' due to their more limited knowledge of building, the Gothic era coincided with a greater knowledge of engineering and this is reflected in the church buildings completed during this era.
Gothic churches and cathedrals were different to Norman buildings. The increase in knowledge and skills acquired over the years, meant that stone was specifically cut so that it fitted perfectly next to other stone blocks. Therefore, the large blocks of stone that the Normans prefered, were replaced by shaped stone.
The Decorated Period (1280-1380) is the second phase of Gothic architecture in England. Other common names used to refer to this period are Middle Pointed, Curvilinear, Geometric, and Flamboyant. All these terms refer to the shape of window heads and window tracery, which became much more elaborate and, well, "decorated"! The shape of buildings did not change much, rather the decorated period was one of evolution, rather than revolution....