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The Development of Stained Glass in Gothic Cathedrals

Interior of the rose at Strasbourg Cathedral
Interior of the rose at Strasbourg Cathedral
Interior of the rose at Strasbourg Cathedral

The Development of Stained Glass in Gothic Cathedrals

Elizabeth (Aislin) Reynolds

JCCC Honors Journal: Vol. 4: Iss. 1 (2013)

Abstract

Stained glass is arguably one of the most important aspects of Gothic cathedrals. As its popularity rose, mainly during the mid-12th century, the increased presence of stained glass presented major changes to the way the general populace was learning about religion. The windows became illuminated visual sermons of biblical stories, which may have had an even greater impact than the spoken word of the priest. This paper focused primarily on the stained glass windows and architectural styles employed in five gothic buildings in France, each having their own unique and notable attributes pertaining to the development of stained glass windows. By looking at the architectural advancements shown in these structures built during the gothic time frame, we are able to see the impact of the widespread desire for increased height and light within these types of buildings on the gothic cathedral.

Introduction 

Stained glass is arguably one of the most important aspects of Gothic cathedrals. As its popularity rose, mainly during the mid-12th century, the increased presence of stained glass presented major changes to the way the general populace was learning about religion. The windows became illuminated visual sermons of biblical stories, which may have had an even greater impact than the spoken word of the priest. In this research paper, I will be primarily focusing on the stained glass windows and architectural styles employed in five gothic buildings in France, each having their own unique and notable attributes pertaining to the development of stained glass windows. By looking at the architectural advancements shown in these structures built during the gothic time frame, we are able to see the impact that the widespread desire for increased height and light within these types of buildings had on the gothic cathedral.

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