From admirable tebernacle to the House of God

Some theological reflections on medieval architectural integration

Considers the notion of artistic integration in Gothic buildings by examinings the possible relevance of an augustinian aesthetic during this period. Augsutine wrote about the concept of beauty which reflected 'harmonia', the fitting order established by God. Following this concept, the humanly cons...

Full description

Bibliographic Details
Author:Bernard McGinn
Pages:41-56
Format:Essay
Topic:- Influence and Survival > The Middle Ages (430-1453) > General studies of the survival of Augustine in the Greek world and in western thought and schools > [Survie dans le Moyen Âge occidental (généralités)] > [Gothique]
- Influence and Survival > The Middle Ages (430-1453) > General studies of the survival of Augustine in the Greek world and in western thought and schools > [Pensée médiévale (par sujet)] > [Esthétique (construction des églises)]
Parent Work: Artistic integration on gothic buildings
Status:Needs Review
Description
Summary:Considers the notion of artistic integration in Gothic buildings by examinings the possible relevance of an augustinian aesthetic during this period. Augsutine wrote about the concept of beauty which reflected 'harmonia', the fitting order established by God. Following this concept, the humanly constructed beatuy of a church building is meant to form an 'admirable tabernacle' which will lead to God. With this basic assuption, the author reviews reent literature concerning the 'intentions' variously ascribed to Surger for the recontruction of Saint-Denis, developing a perspective from Augustinian Aesthetics. McGinn sees Surger's sense of beauty grounded in the necessity of the transition from material to spiritual beauty. He does not see Surger as an isolated example, but urges continued exploration of applied theology in medieval art.

Similar Items