LibGuides: Middle Ages: Architecture

Resource key

Resource Key

When accessing content use the numbers below to guide you:

LEVEL 1

Brief, basic information laid out in an easy-to-read format. May use informal language. (Includes most news articles)

LEVEL 2

Provides additional background information and further reading. Introduces some subject-specific language.

LEVEL 3

Lengthy, detailed information. Frequently uses technical/subject-specific language. (Includes most analytical articles)

Architecture in the Middle Ages

Architecture in the Middle Ages
This website provides a brief look at popular architecture styles.
Brief look at Gothic Architecture
This website shows key features and examples of Gothic architecture
Brief look at Romanesque Architecture
This website shows key features and provides examples for Romanesque architecture.
Architecture and liturgy
The relationship between liturgy and architecture—between worship and the space in which it occurs—has a rich history in the Christian tradition.

Castles

Medieval Castle
Lengthy article that covers the evolution of the castle and the key features with pictures.
The Medieval Castle: Four Different Types
The medieval castle was the foundation of military defense for nearly a millennium. Kingdoms were caught up in an arms race to build wood and stone structures that were most effective in halting armies on campaign.
Purpose and significance of castles
Short easy to read piece on why they were built and their importance.
Medieval Castles - The Changing Look of Medieval Castles Over the Centuries
One of the cultural icons that we associate with the medieval period of history is the castle. But the classic image of a medieval castle with the round turrets, the drawbridge and the moat was one that developed over my centuries as the materials that were used to make castles became more sophisticated and the job of castles changed with the times.

Impact of Norman architecture

Medieval part 1: Architecture
For more than a century after the Battle of Hastings, all substantial stone buildings in England were built in the Romanesque style. Known in the British Isles as Norman, it is a direct descendant of late Roman architecture.

After 1066, William the Conqueror, and subsequent Norman Kings, built thousands of castles to ensure their control. Learn about the castles’ Motte and Bailey design, as Wilburg and Norman explain key features such as moats, keeps and murder holes! Students will also learn information about castle life – including jousting and feasts.

Focus Questions

What are the key features of your chosen aspect of Medieval life?
How does your aspect demonstrate the beliefs and ideas of Medieval society?
What does it reveal to us about what people thought at the time?
What are some of the ways that your aspect reflected and re-enforced medieval social structures?
Explain with reference to at least two different historians’ opinions.
How and why did your aspect change over time?
In your opinion does your topic demonstrate similarities between the medieval period and today? Explain

Cathedrals

Cathedrals in the Middle Ages
Cathedrals in the middle ages were typically large churches and were considered the center church of the bishop’s throne. In the medieval times, monumental cathedrals were built to symbolize of faith and a display of creativity within the middle ages society in Europe.

Middle Ages: Architecture

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