Hegel's notion of Gothic architecture

Abstract

In an effort to look at Hegel's thoughts about Gothic architecture and their limitations, this paper examines his aesthetic theory, his theory of art history and the fine arts, and ' romantic architecture' in the Aesthetics. The most important notion in Hegel's aesthetic theory is the idea. It 'gives art its subject matter and its meaningfulness'.' His philosophy of art history is based on the symbiotic relation between art and religion, intrinsic expressions of the spirit. A review of Hegel's views about romantic architecture is also included, together with an exposition of Gothic architecture proper. By way of concluding this paper its author includes also a critique of various aspects referred to in dealing with the above themes