Review by Choice Review
Wilson's study of the Gothic "great church" encompasses both cathedrals and churches created for other functions but similar in size and essential characteristics. He omits other types of churches (most notably hall and aisleless plans). Copiously illustrated with 220 good-quality black-and-white photographs and drawings, this study represents a much needed general survey of the structural evolution of Gothic architecture, admirably synthesizing recent research. Organized in three chronological chapters, it focuses on French and English developments, with lesser attention to Germany and other regions, commensurate with the general perceived importance of these areas to the evolution of the Gothic style in different periods. (Wilson's own area of expertise is late Gothic architecture in England.) Equipped with a very helpful glossary, and a rather short select bibliography organized thematically, the book regrettably lacks any footnotes and seems designed as a graduate or advanced undergraduate textbook. The often rather technical subject matter is presented in a very lucid and readable prose style. The octavo format and succinct length are a pleasant contrast to the ponderous and awkward scale of many important books in this field. -J. Oliver, Colgate University
Copyright American Library Association, used with permission.
Review by Booklist Review
An effective study of the architecture and design of some of Europe's greatest churches in the period of the Middle Ages. Wilson leads the reader through the development of the Gothic style, explaining the roots of this architectural form and pointing out the various paths of development in different countries. The author also investigates the social and cultural functions of these buildings as he examines the influence of the patron on the final structure. Although the illustrations are not numerous--in fact some of the black-and-white photographs are a bit murky in reproduction--this is a skillful and fresh assessment that brings to the general reader the recent work of art researchers and critics. The excellent glossary defines and pictures architectural terms. Bibliography; index. --John Brosnahan
From Booklist, Copyright (c) American Library Association. Used with permission.
