Architecture of Medieval Churches

John A. H. Lewis holds Bachelor and Master of Architecture degrees from the University of Auckland, and a PhD (Theology) from the University of Otago. He is a member of the New Zealand Institute of Architects, and practised as an architect for thirty years before concentrating as an independent scholar on medieval studies in architecture, theology, and Dante Alighieri.

• 1 Introduction 2 The mind in love 3 The mirror of comprehension: the trivium 4. The mirror of instruction: the quadrivium 5 The mirror of contemplation: life in nature 6 Building in love

"The argument for the influence of love on medieval church architecture is exceptional in its originality, scope and development. Given his premises, the argument from theology is of such importance that it is sure to force a rethinking of the influences on medieval church building, while suggesting modern application as well.The discussion of the churches reflects an unusually proficient grasp of the architectural issues. Lewis makes a strong case for understanding Gothic churches as expressions of vernacular architecture—something that historicist focus on developing styles has mostly misunderstood.This book will make a major contribution to the emerging field which one might call theology and the built environment."William Dyrness, Professor of Theology & Culture, Fuller Theological Seminary, USA