ENGL 364 Dr. Helen Bittel "The Nature of Gothic" Study Guide Answer any four of the following Why, according to Ruskin, is Gothic (or medieval) architecture so disparaged? And why does he think that it is---to the contrary---superior to Greek (or classical) architecture? Why is "perfection", in art or architecture, not such a good thing? According to Ruskin, do the Victorians share more in common---values-wise---with Gothic/medieval culture or with Greek/classical culture? What is his evidence? And what "values" are at stake? How does Ruskin go about persuading you to accept his position? Does he appeal to emotions? To logic? Does he arrange ideas to maximize impact? What role, if any, do diction (word choice) and imagery play? Is he convincing? Why or why not? Think about what you already know (whether from this class or others) about the historical, literary, and cultural context in which this essay was written. With whom (specific individuals or groups) might the author have been in dialogue? Which aspects of these essays would probably have seemed most provocative or even controversial at the time it was written? How does the essay speak to readers today? Is it still relevant? Consider especially Ruskin's claim that "every young lady, therefore, who buys glass beads is engaged in the slave trade." What is he trying to say here and how might this connect with current debates?   Contact the English Department at: 570-348-6219. E-mail: English@marywood.edu.

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