Chartres

Chartres: Sacred Geometry, Sacred Space

Gordon Strachan, author of Jesus the Master Builder, explores the magnificent structure of Chartres Cathedral, and examines the influences on the medieval master builders.

Using Chartres as a starting point, Dr Strachan suggests that the origins of the Gothic style may lie in Islamic architecture. He goes on to consider how the experience of a particular architectural space affects us, and how sacred geometry works.

Beautifully illustrated, this is an inspiring and informative book for anyone interested in religious architecture and spirituality.

C O N T E N T S:

Introduction
1. The Islamic Origin of the Pointed Arch
2. Abbot Suger and the Historical Debate
3. St Bernard and the Early Gothic Plan
4. Of Cubes and Ka’aba
5. The Plan of Chartres
6. Dionysius the Areopagite and the Unknown God
7. St Denis, Chartres and the Darkness of God

About the Author

Gordon Strachan (1934-2010) was a lecturer, church minister, and independent thinker. He was the author of six books, including Jesus the Master Builder (2000); Chartres: Sacred Geometry, Sacred Space (2003); The Return of Merlin; and Prophets of Nature (2006). Gordon also featured in a documentary, And Did Those Feet, based on Jesus the Master Builder, which screened in 2010 at the British Film Institute in London.