9

Gothic Cathedrals

Answer: C

The Gothic cathedral style emerged in France during the 12th century and quickly spread throughout Europe. These massive structures featured pointed arches, large stained-glass windows, and towering spires. The architectural innovations allowed builders to create unprecedented vertical space filled with light. Medieval builders saw these cathedrals not merely as buildings but as earthly representations of heavenly perfection.

According to the text, what made Gothic cathedrals architecturally significant?

A. They were built faster than other buildings
B. They used less building material than earlier structures
C. Their design created tall, well-lit interior spaces ✓
D. They were exclusively built in France

Detailed Explanation

Choice C is correct. The text specifically mentions "unprecedented vertical space filled with light" as what the architectural innovations achieved.

Key Evidence:

• "unprecedented vertical space filled with light"
• "towering spires" and "large stained-glass windows"

Why others are wrong: A (speed not mentioned), B (materials not mentioned), D (incorrect—"spread throughout Europe").

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