Question

why is the abbey church of saint-denis considered to be truly gothic in style?
a. the new choir, composed of exceptional stained glass windows and liturgical ornamentation
b. the arched windows, the narrow nave, and the separate altar
c. the pulpit and the raised altar
d. none of the above

please select the best answer from the choices provided

a
b
c
d

Explanation:

Analyze the architectural significance of Saint-Denis

The Abbey Church of Saint-Denis (specifically the remodeling of its east-end choir initiated by Abbot Suger in the 1140s) is widely recognized as the birthplace of Gothic architecture. This new choir integrated key elements such as pointed arches, ribbed vaulting, and a continuous ambulatory with radiating chapels, which allowed for a light-filled space.

Evaluate the given options

• a. the new choir, composed of exceptional stained glass windows and liturgical ornamentation: This option correctly identifies the revolutionary "new choir" designed by Abbot Suger, which featured an innovative layout that integrated large, exceptional stained glass windows to flood the sacred space with divine light (lux nova).
• b. the arched windows, the narrow nave, and the separate altar: These features are not the defining reasons why Saint-Denis is considered the first truly Gothic structure.
• c. the pulpit and the raised altar: These are standard liturgical furnishings found in many architectural styles, not unique markers of the Gothic style.
• d. none of the above: Incorrect, as option (a) is accurate.

Answer:

• (A) the new choir, composed of exceptional stained glass windows and liturgical ornamentation (Correct answer)
• (B) the arched windows, the narrow nave, and the separate altar
• (C) the pulpit and the raised altar
• (D) none of the above