Medieval Architecture in Western Europe

Medieval Architecture in Western Europe covers the entire period of European Medieval architecture from c. 300 to c.1500. It offers a basic introduction with appropriate plans, sections, and photographs, all in one single volume. Concerned about the perceived gap in current art history books in regards to medieval architecture, the author is careful to examine selected major monuments, incorporating just the right amount of detail to provide the basic information needed to learn about each type of building, and to impart a sense of continuity and development of structure, form, and function across Europe and through the different periods of the Middle Ages. The author explores the contextual role of the buildings in their settings and the symbolic impact of both exterior and interior forms, paying particular attention to their experiential qualities. The book is heavily illustrated with photographs, plans, sections, and diagrams. Remarkably thorough in its coverage, Medieval Architecture in Western Europe will not only appeal to the general reader who has little or no prior knowledge of medieval architecture, but will also keep the interest of those who are more knowledgeable about the subject.