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Age of Cathedrals

Howard Bloch

An introduction to some of the most astonishing architectural monuments the world has ever known—Gothic cathedrals. We shall study the art, literature, intellectual life, economics, and new social arrangements that arose in the shadow of the cathedrals and that were such an important part of the revival of cities in the twelfth and thirteenth centuries. The goal of the course is a better appreciation of the High Middle Ages, a world that is still recognizably our own.

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Syllabus

Introduction & Saint-Denis I
An introduction to the history of Paris in the centuries of chaos following the death of Charlemagne in 814 and the building of the first Gothic cathedral at Saint-Denis, just north of Paris. The old abbey church, where the kings of France were buried, was inadequate, and so a new building project was undertaken by Abbot Suger, who financed the new building through efficient land management and the commercial Fair of Lendit along a trade route between northern and southern Europe.
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Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Teaches about architectural monuments that impacted cities in the twelfth and thirteenth centuries
Taught by Howard Bloch, who is recognized for his work in art, literature, and the history of the Middle Ages
Examines the relationship between cathedrals and society, including art, intellectual life, economics, and social arrangements
Develops an appreciation for the High Middle Ages and its relevance to contemporary society
Includes a study of Saint-Denis, the first Gothic cathedral, its history, design, and significance
Provides an analysis of the architectural innovations of Gothic cathedrals, including ribbed vaults, pointed arches, and flying buttresses

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Reviews summary

Deep dive into gothic cathedrals

According to inferred perspectives based on the course structure, learners might find this course to be a detailed exploration of the Age of Cathedrals. The syllabus suggests a focus on key architectural monuments like Saint-Denis, Notre Dame, and Chartres, examined within their broader historical, social, and cultural contexts. Students interested in the art, literature, and intellectual life of the High Middle Ages may appreciate the interdisciplinary approach. The content seems potentially rich in historical detail, covering aspects like architectural innovation, urban life, and significant figures like Abbot Suger and Saint Louis. However, as a university-level course, it may require a willingness to engage with academic material and potentially dense historical context, which might be a warning for those seeking a more casual overview or practical skills.
Connects architecture to broader culture.
"I appreciate how the course links architecture to art, literature, and daily life."
"Studying texts like The Song of Roland and Peter Abelard's autobiography alongside the buildings seems very insightful."
"The course structure suggests a holistic view of the time period, not just a technical one."
Detailed look at key cathedral features.
"I'm excited about the detailed modules on specific cathedrals and their unique features."
"Learning about the engineering innovations like flying buttresses sounds very interesting."
"The syllabus promises a close look at the architectural styles and their evolution."
Explores the historical context in detail.
"I anticipate a deep dive into the historical backdrop of the era, which is precisely what I'm looking for."
"The course appears to cover the social and economic factors alongside the architecture, providing rich context."
"I expect to gain a thorough understanding of the period beyond just the buildings themselves."
Potentially challenging academic material.
"As a Yale course, I expect the material to be quite academic and potentially demanding."
"Learners new to this period might find the historical and cultural density challenging at times."
"I anticipate needing to dedicate significant time to fully grasp the concepts presented."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Age of Cathedrals with these activities:
Analyze Gothic Cathedral Floor Plans
Develop your analytical skills by studying and comparing the floor plans of different Gothic cathedrals.
Browse courses on Gothic Architecture
Show steps
  • Select a set of floor plans for different Gothic cathedrals.
  • Identify the main features and dimensions of each floor plan.
  • Compare and contrast the floor plans to identify similarities and differences.
Review High Medieval History
Review key events and figures of the High Medieval period to refresh your understanding and provide context for the course material.
Browse courses on Middle Ages
Show steps
  • Read a general overview of the High Medieval period.
  • Review the key events and figures of the period, such as the Crusades, the rise of the papacy, and the development of Gothic architecture.
Read 'The Gothic Cathedral: Architecture of the Great Cathedrals and Its Meaning' by Otto von Simson
Gain a deeper understanding of the architectural principles and symbolism of Gothic cathedrals through this classic work.
Show steps
  • Read the introduction and first chapter to familiarize yourself with the author's main arguments.
  • Select a particular cathedral discussed in the book and focus on its architectural features and symbolism.
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Explore the 'Mapping Gothic France' Database
Gain hands-on experience with architectural research by exploring the 'Mapping Gothic France' database.
Browse courses on Gothic Architecture
Show steps
  • Visit the 'Mapping Gothic France' website and explore the available tools and resources.
  • Select a particular region or cathedral to focus on.
  • Use the database to gather information on the architectural features and history of your chosen subject.
Discuss the Impact of Gothic Cathedrals on Medieval Society
Engage in discussions with fellow students to explore the broader social, cultural, and religious significance of Gothic cathedrals.
Browse courses on Gothic Architecture
Show steps
  • Join or create a study group or online discussion forum.
  • Prepare questions or topics for discussion related to the impact of Gothic cathedrals.
  • Participate actively in discussions, sharing your insights and perspectives.
Design a Virtual Gothic Cathedral
Combine your knowledge of Gothic architecture with creativity by designing a virtual Gothic cathedral using software such as SketchUp or Blender.
Browse courses on Gothic Architecture
Show steps
  • Choose a specific Gothic cathedral or style to base your design on.
  • Consider the architectural principles and symbolism associated with Gothic cathedrals.
  • Use 3D modeling software to create a detailed virtual representation of your design.
Build a Model Gothic Cathedral
Enhance your understanding of Gothic architectural principles by constructing a physical model of a Gothic cathedral.
Browse courses on Gothic Architecture
Show steps
  • Gather materials such as cardboard, glue, and other craft supplies.
  • Study the architectural features of Gothic cathedrals and plan the design of your model.
  • Construct the model, paying attention to details such as ribbed vaults, pointed arches, and stained glass windows.
Write a Research Paper on a Gothic Cathedral
Deepen your knowledge of a specific Gothic cathedral by conducting research and writing an academic paper.
Browse courses on Gothic Architecture
Show steps
  • Choose a particular Gothic cathedral to focus on.
  • Conduct research using books, journal articles, and online resources.
  • Develop a thesis statement and outline for your paper.
  • Write the paper, presenting your research findings and analysis.

Career center

Learners who complete Age of Cathedrals will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Curator
Curators collect, preserve and display pieces of cultural and historical significance, such as those found in cathedrals. This course can help you to develop the skills necessary to curate museum exhibitions about cathedrals and medieval religious history. The syllabus covers the religious functions of cathedrals and how they intersect with the advancement of trade, art, and urban society in the High Middle Ages. The course will help you understand the social and cultural significance of cathedrals and the ways in which they have been used throughout history.
See salaries and explore the career path for Curator
Architectural Historian
Architectural historians trace the history of buildings and assess their cultural significance. This course may be useful for those interested in pursuing a career in architectural history, as it will provide you with a detailed understanding of the architectural innovations of gothic cathedrals. Through this course, you will study the origins and engineering innovations used in ribbed vaults, reinforced pillars, pointed arches, flying buttresses, and a modular system of bay construction.
See salaries and explore the career path for Architectural Historian
Historic Preservationist
Historic preservationists work to conserve and protect historic buildings. This course may be useful for those interested in pursuing a career as a historic preservationist because you will learn the history and architectural innovations behind some of the most astonishing architectural monuments the world has ever known—Gothic cathedrals. Through the syllabus, you will gain a better understanding of how these buildings were constructed in the context of their time and how that intersects with their preservation today.
See salaries and explore the career path for Historic Preservationist
Museum Educator
Museum educators develop and deliver educational programs that engage the public. This course may be useful for those interested in pursuing a career as a museum educator because it provides a detailed overview of the art, literature, intellectual life, economics, and new social arrangements that arose in the shadow of Gothic cathedrals. With this knowledge, you will be able to create educational programs that help the public engage with and understand the history of Gothic cathedrals and the High Middle Ages.
See salaries and explore the career path for Museum Educator
Archaeologist
Archaeologists study past peoples through the excavation of ancient sites and the analysis of artifacts. This course may be useful for those interested in pursuing a career in archaeology, as it will provide you with a detailed understanding of the history and cultural significance of Gothic cathedrals. Through this course, you will learn about the religious functions of cathedrals and how they intersect with the advancement of trade, art, and urban society in the High Middle Ages, all of which will be useful context as an archaeologist.
See salaries and explore the career path for Archaeologist
Art historian
Art historians study and interpret art, providing insight into its historical and cultural context. This course may be useful for those interested in pursuing a career as an art historian, as it will provide you with a detailed understanding of some of the most famous and significant works of Gothic art. Through this course, you will study the art, literature, intellectual life, economics, and new social arrangements that arose in the shadow of Gothic cathedrals, all of which will help to build a foundation for understanding art history.
See salaries and explore the career path for Art historian
Professor
Professors teach and conduct research at colleges and universities. This course may be useful for those interested in pursuing a career as a professor of art history, history, architecture, or religious studies. The course provides a detailed overview of Gothic cathedrals, including their history, art, literature, intellectual life, economics, and new social arrangements. This knowledge would be valuable for a professor teaching courses on these topics.
See salaries and explore the career path for Professor
Tour Guide
Tour guides lead groups of people through historical sites and provide commentary on the history and significance of the sites. This course may be useful for those interested in pursuing a career as a tour guide, as it will provide you with a detailed understanding of the history and cultural significance of Gothic cathedrals. Through this course, you will learn about the religious functions of cathedrals and how they intersect with the advancement of trade, art, and urban society in the High Middle Ages. This knowledge will help you to provide informative and engaging tours of Gothic cathedrals.
See salaries and explore the career path for Tour Guide
Writer
Writers produce written content for a variety of purposes, such as informing, entertaining, or persuading. This course may be useful for those interested in pursuing a career as a writer, as it will provide you with a detailed understanding of the history and cultural significance of Gothic cathedrals. This knowledge can be used to create compelling and informative content about Gothic cathedrals for a variety of audiences.
See salaries and explore the career path for Writer
Editor
Editors review, revise, and prepare written material for publication. This course may be useful for those interested in pursuing a career as an editor, as it will provide you with a detailed understanding of the history and cultural significance of Gothic cathedrals. This knowledge can be used to help authors create compelling and informative content about Gothic cathedrals.
See salaries and explore the career path for Editor
Librarian
Librarians assist library patrons with finding and using library resources. This course may be useful for those interested in pursuing a career as a librarian, as it will provide you with a detailed understanding of the history and cultural significance of Gothic cathedrals. This knowledge can be used to help library patrons find resources about Gothic cathedrals and to create exhibits or programs about Gothic cathedrals.
See salaries and explore the career path for Librarian
Archivist
Archivists preserve and provide access to historical documents. This course may be useful for those interested in pursuing a career as an archivist, as it will provide you with a detailed understanding of the history and cultural significance of Gothic cathedrals. This knowledge can be used to help preserve and provide access to documents related to Gothic cathedrals.
See salaries and explore the career path for Archivist
Museum curator
Museum curators plan and oversee museum operations, including the acquisition, preservation, and display of museum collections. This course may be useful for those interested in pursuing a career as a museum curator, as it will provide you with a detailed understanding of the history and cultural significance of Gothic cathedrals. This knowledge can be used to help curate exhibits on Gothic cathedrals and to develop educational programs about Gothic cathedrals.
See salaries and explore the career path for Museum curator
Historic Site Manager
Historic site managers oversee the operation and maintenance of historic sites. This course may be useful for those interested in pursuing a career as a historic site manager, as it will provide you with a detailed understanding of the history and cultural significance of Gothic cathedrals. This knowledge can be used to help manage and preserve Gothic cathedrals.
See salaries and explore the career path for Historic Site Manager
Preservation Planner
Preservation planners develop and implement plans to preserve historic buildings and sites. This course may be useful for those interested in pursuing a career as a preservation planner, as it will provide you with a detailed understanding of the history and cultural significance of Gothic cathedrals. This knowledge can be used to help develop and implement plans to preserve Gothic cathedrals.
See salaries and explore the career path for Preservation Planner

Reading list

We've selected 11 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Age of Cathedrals.
Cover image
Anachronic Renaissance
Save
Offers a detailed exploration of the origins, development, and innovations of Gothic architecture. It provides a comprehensive understanding of the structural and aesthetic principles that shaped the design of Gothic cathedrals.
Anachronic Renaissance (Mit Press)
Paperback
$$
Anachronic Renaissance (Zone Books)
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Economic and Social History of Medieval Europe
Save
This classic work provides a broad overview of the social and economic development of medieval cities in Europe. It offers insights into the urban context in which Gothic cathedrals were built and the role they played in urban life.
Economic and Social History of Medieval Europe
Paperback
Check
Economic and Social History of Medieval Europe
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Notre Dame Cathedral
Save
Offers a detailed exploration of the history, architecture, and symbolism of Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris. It provides insights into the specific features and innovations of this iconic Gothic masterpiece.
Notre Dame Cathedral: Nine Centuries of History
Paperback
$$
Notre Dame Cathedral: Nine Centuries of History
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
In Search of the Unknown in Medieval Architecture
Save
Provides a technical and historical examination of the construction methods used in Gothic cathedrals. It useful resource for understanding the engineering innovations and architectural challenges involved in building these structures.
In Search of the Unknown in Medieval Architecture
Paperback
$$
Cover image
Gothic
Save
This richly illustrated book provides a visual tour of some of the most iconic Gothic cathedrals in Europe. It offers stunning photographs and detailed descriptions of their architectural features, artwork, and historical significance.
Gothic: Visual Art of the Middle Ages 1140-1500
Hardcover
$$$$
Cover image
A Chronological History of Australian Composers and...
Save
Examines the relationship between cathedrals and cities in medieval Europe. It explores how cathedrals shaped urban development and how they interacted with the economic, social, and cultural life of the city.
A Chronological History of Australian Composers and...
Kindle Edition
$$
A Chronological History of Australian Composers and...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
The Spirit of St. Francis de Sales; By His Friend...
Save
This biography provides insights into the life and reign of Saint Louis IX of France, a devout king who played a significant role in the construction of the Sainte-Chapelle in Paris. It offers a glimpse into the religious and political motivations behind the building of Gothic cathedrals.
The Spirit of St. Francis de Sales; By His Friend...
Hardcover
$$$$
Cover image
The Abbey of Cluny
Save
Explores the history and significance of the Abbey of Cluny, one of the most influential Benedictine monasteries in medieval Europe. It provides insights into the monastic culture and spirituality that shaped the development of Gothic architecture.
From Martyr to Monument: The Abbey of Cluny as...
Hardcover
$$$
Cover image
The Gothic Revival
Save
Examines the revival of Gothic architecture in the 19th century. It provides a historical perspective on the changing attitudes towards Gothic cathedrals and their influence on modern architecture.
The Gothic Revival: An Essay in the History of Taste
Paperback
$$$
Cover image
Temptation Transformed
Save
This epic poem tells the story of Roland, a knight in Charlemagne's army, and his heroic battle against the Saracens at the Battle of Roncevaux Pass. It valuable source for understanding the medieval legends and chivalry that influenced the design of Gothic cathedrals.
Temptation Transformed: The Story of How the...
Hardcover
$$
Temptation Transformed: The Story of How the...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Art History
Save
This concise introduction to cathedrals provides an overview of their history, architecture, and significance. It useful starting point for those seeking a basic understanding of the topic.
Art History (6th Edition)
Hardcover
$$$$

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Course image
Level
Introductory
Via
Coursera
Institution
Yale University
Instructor
Howard Bloch
Language
English
Transcripts
Español Français Português Deutsch Italiano 中文 العربية 한국어 日本語 हिंदी Nederlands Svenska Pусский Türkçe Polski Ελληνικά українська мова magyar nyelv Bahasa Indonesia ไทย қазақша اُردُو, فارسی বাংলা پښتو آذربایجان دیلی
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Teaches about architectural monuments that impacted cities in the twelfth and thirteenth centuries
Taught by Howard Bloch, who is recognized for his work in art, literature, and the history of the Middle Ages
Examines the relationship between cathedrals and society, including art, intellectual life, economics, and social arrangements
Develops an appreciation for the High Middle Ages and its relevance to contemporary society
Includes a study of Saint-Denis, the first Gothic cathedral, its history, design, and significance
Provides an analysis of the architectural innovations of Gothic cathedrals, including ribbed vaults, pointed arches, and flying buttresses
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