PREFACE
In the following attempt to set forth the development and character of Gothic architecture, I use the term "Gothic," because it has been established by custom to designate the architecture of the late Middle Ages as distinguished from that of ancient and early mediaeval times; and because, since it was owing to the infusion of Northern genius that the style was brought into being, it is not an entirely inappropriate term. But I use it in a restricted sense; confining it to that style of the Middle Ages which was most distinctly a mediæval product. In thus restricting the term, I am forced to exclude the greater part of what has usually been called Gothic architecture, because of its failure to exhibit those qualities of design and construction which are distinctive. The general term pointed architecture will suffice to include those inferior works which have been hitherto erroneously classed with Gothic. The position to which my study of the subject has led me differs considerably from that which has hitherto been maintained, especially by English writers. In the works of the true Gothic style a noble and well-conceived original design is carried out systematically, with strict logic of construction, with thorough regard to mechanical and statical principles, and with a controlling sense of beauty. They are works of the highest art, in which the understanding of technical methods is so complete as to serve as the secure foundation for the creations of the poetic imagination. It will, doubtless, seem
