The technical revolution in architecture know as "Gothic" began at the end of the 12th century and lasted just over two hundred years. The advances made in architecture paralleled those in intellectual life.

Often using local materials, Gothic architecture is generally tall and inspiring and was a significant structural improvement upon the Romanesque buildings that preceded it. As with almost any large undertaking, there were political implications for the people involved in the operation of building a cathedral. The types of cathedrals built in England at a given time were thus representative of the political, social and economic situation there at the time of construction.

The ‘Early Gothic' Period (1175-1250)

The first Gothic cathedrals were characterized by their Romanesque interiors, as most building that went on during this era was actually rebuilding. This meant that the cathedral's three levels were distinctly divided from each other. The arcade was the first level, getting its name from the many arches there. Above that were the triforium, locus of the vaults, and the clerestory whose purpose was to light the cathedral.

The mid-thirteenth century witnessed the largest cathedral-building campaign of the whole Middle Ages. The reasons for this climax are diverse. First, with the construction of new roads and bridges, transportation was improved. This meant that materials for the new cathedrals were more easily attained. An influx of silver and an urban growth created a diversity of labourers and tradesmen. And most importantly, ecclesiastical incomes rose as a result of increased efficiency of management and administration. The combination of these factors together created the flourishing of the Gothic period.

The ‘Decorated' Period (1250-1300)

The main characteristic of this era is the ‘bar tracery'. Here, designs in masonry ranging from the simple to the flamboyant, are set on to windows. The result is that the stonework supports of the building can become lighter. This vastly extended the use of metal reinforcements in medieval architecture. Artistic invention was the main focus however, and windows became the focal point of a cathedral with their elaborate and ornate traceries.

The ‘Perpendicular' Period (1350-1400)

This style of Gothic architecture in England is referred to as ‘Perpendicular' because of its stark, rigid exteriorlines. There are elements of an Egyptian influence due to the frequent visits many English merchants, artists, and pilgrims were making to the east. New vaulting techniques came into use that were more decorative in nature; some of these were the net vault of Gloucester Cathedral pictured below. The Perpendicular stage in Gothic became the standard for cathedral building for nearly two hundred years, or until the Reformation.