Describe the Medieval Imagination

The Medieval imagination changed a lot over the years. The two main divisions in their imaginations was between the Romanesque and Gothic Architecture periods and the imagination was shown in the architecture. In the Romanesque period, the imagination was very hopeless and looking towards death because of the many depictions of Judgement Day. The people were also pariniod because of the way the churches were designed. The churches were built like fortresses because people were afraid of being attacked and when they were that was the 'safe house' of sorts.

Conversely, the Gothic imagination was very different. In the Gothic period people were rejoicing and having a newfound hope in their religion. This was shown by the new bright lit churches, with flying butchresses and lots of stained glass windows. This was the opposite of the Romanesque period because of the new, more hopeful imagination shared by people all over Europe.

Works Cited:

"Gothic Architecture." Wikipedia, the Free Encyclopedia. Web. 16 Apr. 2010. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gothic_architecture.

"Romanesque Architecture." Wikipedia, the Free Encyclopedia. Web. 16 Apr. 2010. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Romanesque_architecture.