Journal of Undergraduate Research
Keywords
symbols of heaven, iconographic programs, Gothic
College
Fine Arts and Communications
Department
Art
Abstract
Gothic churches are vivid expressions of Catholic doctrine and local culture. Doctrinally churches have a similar basic purpose—to unite members of the community for the teaching of church doctrine and for the celebration of religious sacraments or holidays. However, each church often has additional unique functions based on religious, political, economic, or other factors of the era and region. One of the most important means by which a church illustrates these purposes is through the symbolic art and architecture decorating its interior and exterior. This church iconography is meant to communicate to the community the Catholic plan of salvation and the role of individual churches in that plan and the lives of the people.
Recommended Citation
Hansen, Gerald III and Johnson, Dr. Mark
(2014)
"Symbols of Heaven: An Analysis of Iconographic Programs in Gothic Western Facades,"
Journal of Undergraduate Research: Vol. 2014:
Iss.
1, Article 462.
Available at:
https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/jur/vol2014/iss1/462