Architecture of the Middle Ages

Architecture of the Middle Ages

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HUM100 Ð'- Introduction to the Humanities

Introduction

When thinking of medieval or gothic architecture, one can't help but think about the giant castles and beautiful churches that are spread across Western Europe. The castles and churches are definitely a great example of medieval architecture; there are a lot of other examples to explore. For example, what were residential and commercial buildings like? How did the residences differ between those of different social classes? This paper will explore residential, religious and military architecture from the middle ages.

Residential Architecture

The residences of the middle ages varied greatly depending on the income level of the owner. The lower classes lived in wooded houses in the country, the middle class lived in wooden houses in the city, and the wealthiest lived in brick houses (or manors) in the city or in the country. These manors were among the largest structures built for their time. Only castles and cathedrals were bigger (History Learning Site, 2007).

The lower class citizens generally lived in cottages or huts had a frame made from trees, and walls made out of a packing a combination of clay, dung, and straw onto a frame of wattle laths (Dartford Archive, 2007). Being made of these materials, these houses would not last very long without constant up keep. There are very few of these buildings still standing today.

The wealthier citizens were most commonly situated inside the city. Because land was at a premium within the city, even the wealthier citizens would usually live in town houses. Often times these townhouses would double as a retail shop and office space for the owner. The townhouses were a typical rectangle shape, but oddly enough, the kitchen was often detached from the house at the rear as a standalone structure. That really makes sense since that is where the heating and cooking were done with an open fire. Having an isolated building really cuts down on the chance of a fire spreading to other buildings.

The townhouses for the middle class were usually made with a timber-frame structure and walls made of woven sticks and weeds called wattle. Only the very wealthy were able to afford houses made with a stone exterior.

Churches and Cathedrals

The churches and cathedrals from the middle ages are an enormous feat in engineering and creativity. During this time no expense was spared in creating the biggest most beautiful structures imaginable. The funds for building the churches and cathedrals came from donations by the locals, most of which were form the poorer classes (History Learning Site, 2007).

The quality of workmanship, materials, and detail that went into building the cathedrals was extraordinary. In some cathedrals it seems as though there is no part that does not have some sort of intricate detail or decoration on it. Archways, and doors were