Who is on 10 dollar bill? The United States 10-dollar bill is a widely recognized and frequently used piece of currency in circulation today. The face of the bill features the portrait of one of the most iconic figures in American history, a founding father and one of the country’s early presidents.
This individual’s image on the 10-dollar bill serves as a reminder of their significant contributions to the nation and their lasting impact on American society. In this article, we will explore the history of the 10-dollar bill and discover who exactly is featured on its face.
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When did this picture appear on the 10-dollar bill?
In 1914, theFederal Reserveissued its first 10-dollar bill bearing the portrait of President Andrew Jackson. However, in 1929, the face on the bill was changed to that ofAlexander Hamilton, one of America’s founding fathers and the first Secretary of the Treasury. As a result, Jackson’s portrait was relocated to the 20-dollar bill, where it remains to this day.
The printing of the 10-dollar bill, along with other larger denominations, was made possible by theFederal Reserve Actof 1913, which established the Federal Reserve as the central bank of the United States. The act also authorized the circulation ofFederal Reserve Bank Notesas a form of currency in the early 20th century.
Over time, the board of governors of the Federal Reserve began issuing a new type ofpaper currencyknown asFederal Reserve Notes, which are still in circulation today. These notes are widely used in theUnited Statesand are considered legal tender for all debts, public and private.
Who is he?
Alexander Hamilton was an American statesman,Founding Father, and one of the most influential interpreters and promoters of the United States Constitution. He was born in theBritish West Indiesand later became a statesman in the newly formedUnited States.
Hamilton served as the first Secretary of the Treasury under President George Washington and was a key figure in the Federalist Party, which advocated for a strong central government. He also played a significant role in the ratification of the Constitution and was a co-author of the Federalist Papers, a series of essays that helped to promote the ratification of the Constitution.
Where Was Alexander Hamilton Born?
Alexander Hamilton, one of the founding fathers of theUnited States, was born on the Caribbean island of Nevis in either 1755 or 1757. His parents, James Hamilton and Rachel Faucette Lavien, were not married at the time of his birth. Rachel was still legally married to another man, but had separated from him due to his mismanagement of her family’s finances, which led to her being imprisoned for adultery.
In 1766, when Hamilton was just 11 years old, his father abandoned the family, and his mother passed away two years later. Despite these early struggles, Hamilton showed great promise and was hired as a clerk in a trading company on the island of St. Croix. It was there that he gained wider attention after publishing a moving letter describing the devastation caused by a hurricane that struck the island in 1772. The local community was so impressed by his writing that they raised funds to send him to America to pursue his education.
Alexander Hamilton’s Children
Alexander Hamilton, one of the founding fathers of theUnited States, had a total of eight children with his wife, Elizabeth Schuyler Hamilton. The couple married in 1780 and went on to have three sons and five daughters.
First child, Philip
Their first child, Philip, was born in 1782 and was named after Hamilton’s close friend and fellow revolutionary,Philip Schuyler. Tragically,Philipdied in a duel in 1801, at the age of 19, while defending his father’s honor.
Second child, Angelica
Their second child, Angelica, was born in 1784. She was named afterElizabeth’s sister,AngelicaSchuyler Church. After her marriage toJohn Barker Church, Angelica moved to Europe, where she lived for the rest of her life.
Third child, Alexander Jr
Their third child, Alexander Jr., was born in 1786. He went on to become a lawyer and served as a member of the United States House of Representatives from New York.
Fourth child, James Alexander
Their fourth child,James Alexander, was born in 1788. He also became a lawyer and had a successful career as a businessman.
Fifth child, John Church
Their fifth child,John Church, was born in 1792. He entered the United States Military Academy at West Point but left before graduating to pursue a career in law.
Sixth child, William Stephen
Their sixth child,William Stephen, was born in 1797. He served as an officer in theUnited States Navyand later became a lawyer.
Seventh child, Eliza
Their seventh child, Eliza, was born in 1799 and was named after her mother. She never married and lived with her mother until her death in 1854.
Eighth and youngest child, Philip Hamilton
Their eighth and youngest child,Philip Hamilton, was born in 1802 and was named after his deceased older brother. He also went on to become a lawyer, but tragically died in a duel in 1831, just like his older brother Philip.
Alexander Hamiltonwas a devoted father and deeply loved his children. He worked tirelessly to provide for them and secure their futures, especially after his untimely death in a duel with Vice President Aaron Burr in 1804. Despite the challenges and tragedies they faced, theHamilton childrenwent on to lead successful lives and make their own contributions to American society.
His Role in the Revolutionary War
Hamilton departed from his position onGeorge Washington’s staff in 1781. However, he later returned to the military, when Washington assigned him a field command for the Battle of Yorktown towards the end of the same year. At this battle, Hamilton distinguished himself with his brilliant performance, leading a successful assault that contributed to the surrender of British General Lord Charles Cornwallis.
Washington appointed Hamilton in 1781 to command alight infantry battalionin Marquis de Lafayette’s Division. Hamilton played a key role at theBattle of Yorktown, which was the last majorland battleof the American Revolutionary War. The siege took place from September 28 to October 19, 1781, during which the French attacked the British fort at Redoubt 9, while Hamilton simultaneously attacked Redoubt 10. The combined attack forcedGeneral Cornwallisto surrender.
“During Hamilton’s time, exhibiting bravery on the battlefield was one of the few ways for an unknown person to gain fame,” explains Michael E. Newton, author of Alexander Hamilton: The Formative Years. “Despite having a genius and being hard-working, Hamilton did not hail from a prominent family like most of the Founding Fathers. He knew that achieving glory in battle would make him famous and help him advance his career.”
Brendan McConville, a professor of history atBoston University, adds that Hamilton was always sensitive about his humble origins, so it was important to him to prove himself during the war. “Although he wasa key aide to Washington for most of the war, Hamilton sought glory on the battlefield,” McConville says. “He saw victory on the battlefield as a way to earn a good reputation.”
Initially, according to Newton, someone else was given command of the assault on Redoubt 10. However, Hamilton objected, claiming that it was his turn and that he had seniority. “When Washington overturned the previous decision and gave Hamilton the command, Hamilton rushed to his friend and second-in-command,Nicholas Fish, and exclaimed ‘We have it! We have it!’ ”
The Patriotstrategy for the attack was to approach the redoubts “in silence with guns unloaded, encircle the enemy and force them to surrender quickly with few casualties,” according to Newton.
“It was a surprise night assault on a moonless night—they did not want to give themselves away with flashes and the sound of guns,” McConville adds. “Bayonets were to be used to avoid giving away specific locations and silence was ordered.”
The plan worked: Hamilton’s troops took control of the redoubt within 10 minutes and with few American deaths. And the victory earned Hamilton the reputation he sought.
“Hamilton’s report of the assault on Redoubt 10 was published in newspapers around the country, but Hamilton made no mention of his own accomplishments that day despite heaping praise on those who served under him,” Newton says. “Lafayette’s report of the assault was also printed in these newspapersand heaped abundant praise upon Hamilton for his actions at Yorktown. As a result, the entire country heard about Hamilton’s bravery and leadership.”
Secretary of the Treasury
In 1789,George Washingtonwas elected as the firstPresident of the United Statesby unanimous vote. He then appointedAlexander Hamiltonas the first Secretary of the U.S. Treasury. Hamilton’s main goal was to establish financial stability for the new nation. To this end, he argued for the importance of anational banking systemand for the federal government to assume state debts.
However, Hamilton’s financial policies faced strong opposition fromJames MadisonandThomas Jefferson, who served as theSecretary of Stateat the time. They believed that his policies granted far too much power to the federal government.
The FirstBank of the United States was chartered in 1791, and it was modeled on the Bank of England. This bank succeeded in fueling economic growth, and it marked the pinnacle of Hamilton’s influence on the new nation.
Meanwhile, the debate continued to rage within Washington’s cabinet over the balance of power between the federal government and the states. By 1793, when war broke out betweenGreat Britainand France, the divide between Hamilton (who advocated for neutrality) and Jefferson (who wanted theUnited Statesto support France) had begun to shape the nation’s first political parties: the Federalists and the Democratic-Republicans.
‘Hamilton’ the Musical
‘Hamilton’ is a musical that premiered on Broadway in 2015 and quickly became a cultural phenomenon. The musical was created by Lin-Manuel Miranda, who wrote the music, lyrics, and book, and based it on the life ofAlexander Hamilton, one of the founding fathers of theUnited States.
The show features a diverse cast and blends hip-hop, R&B, and traditionalshow tunesto tell the story of Hamilton’s life, from his early days as an immigrant inNew York Cityto his service as George Washington’s right-hand man during theAmerican Revolutionand his role in shaping the nation’s early government.
The musical has been praised for its innovative use of music and its ability to make history accessible and engaging for a new generation. It has won numerous awards, including 11Tony Awards, aGrammy Award, and aPulitzer Prize for Drama.
‘Hamilton’ has become acultural phenomenon, with sold-out performances around the world and a dedicated fan base. It has also sparked renewed interest in the life and legacy of Alexander Hamilton, inspiring numerous books, documentaries, and other works of art. Whether you are a fan of musical theater,American history, or just great storytelling, ‘Hamilton’ is a must-see production that has something for everyone.
How Did He Die?
In 1804, Aaron Burr, who had been largely sidelined in his role asvice presidentbyThomas Jefferson, decided to run for governor ofNew York. However, he was met with opposition from powerfulparty rivalsand ultimately lost the election. Frustrated by his defeat, Burr became fixated on anewspaper articlethat had been published during the campaign, which claimed thatAlexander Hamiltonhad insulted him at a private dinner.
Burr wrote to Hamilton, confronting him about the alleged slight. However, when Hamilton refused to back down, Burr challenged him to a duel. On July 11, 1804, the two men met at adueling groundin Weehawken, New Jersey.
During the duel, both men fired their pistols. Hamilton’s shot missed, and some historians believe that he may not have intended to hit Burr, but rather to “throw away his shot.” Unfortunately, Burr’s bullet struck Hamilton and mortally wounded him. Hamilton died the following day from his injuries.
Alexander Hamilton was buried inTrinity Church Cemeteryin New York City, where his tomb remains a popular tourist attraction to this day. The tragic events surrounding his death have become a significant part ofAmerican history, and have been the subject of numerous books, films, and other works of art. Despite his untimely demise, Hamilton’s legacy as one of America’s most influential founding fathers lives on, through his contributions to the nation’s early government and his enduring impact on American society.
In conclusion, the person featured on the 10-dollar bill isAlexander Hamilton, one of theFounding Fathers of the United States and the first Secretary of the Treasury. Hamilton’s contributions to the establishment of the nation’s economic system were significant, and his legacy is still remembered today through his image on the 10-dollar bill. I hope that my information is helpful to you!
FAQs for Who Is On 10$ Dollar Bill
Q: When was the 10-dollar bill first issued?
A: The first 10-dollar bill was issued by the Federal Reserve in 1914.
Q: WasAlexanderHamilton always featured on the 10-dollar bill?
A: No, the face on the 10-dollar bill was originally that of President Andrew Jackson. However, in 1929, the design of the bill was changed, and Hamilton’s portrait was added to the front.
Q: Why was Alexander Hamilton chosen to be featured on the 10-dollar bill?
A: Hamilton was chosen for his significant contributions to the early American government and his role in establishing the nation’s financial system.
Q:Can Istill use old 10-dollar bills that feature Andrew Jackson’s portrait?
A: Yes, old 10-dollar bills that feature Jackson’s portrait are still considered legal tender and can be used for transactions.
Q: Are there anysecurity featureson the 10-dollar bill?
A: Yes, the 10-dollar bill has several security features, including watermarks, color-shifting ink, and security threads, that are designed to prevent counterfeiting.
Q: How long is the lifespan of a 10-dollar bill?
A: The lifespan of a 10-dollar bill varies depending on its usage and handling, but on average, it is around 4-5 years. However, bills that are in good condition and not heavily circulated can last much longer. When bills become too worn or damaged, they are taken out of circulation and replaced with new bills.
Q: Is the 10-dollar bill the only denomination ofU.S. currency to feature AlexanderHamilton?
A: No, Hamilton is also featured on the front of the $50 bill, along with Ulysses S. Grant.
Q: Can I exchange damaged or mutilated 10-dollar bills for new ones?
A: Yes, you can exchange damaged or mutilated bills at your local bank or through the U.S. Treasury’s Bureau of Engraving and Printing. However, the amount you can receive in exchange may depend on the extent of the damage or mutilation.
Q: Are there any interesting facts about the design of the 10-dollar bill?
A: Yes, the back of the 10-dollar bill features a depiction of the U.S. Treasury buildingand the words “Wealth of the Nation.”The Treasurybuilding depicted on the bill is actually based on the design of the building that stood on the site in the 1800s, rather than the current Treasury building in Washington, D.C. Additionally, the 10-dollar bill is one of the few denominations of U.S. currency to feature a woman on the back—specifically, the depiction ofLady Libertyholding a torch and an olive branchsymbolizing peace.
Ten-dollar bill: Alexander Hamilton.
Although he never served as president, Alexander Hamilton still played a major role in our nation's history. He served in the Revolutionary War as an aide to George Washington and is one of our Founding Fathers.
new series of $10 currency bearing Alexander Hamilton's portrait. Regret- tably, what is most often remembered about Hamilton is his fateful duel with his political archenemy, Aaron Burr. But Hamilton's importance goes well beyond his compelling life story and its untimely end.What presidents on the $10 bill? ›
We have George Washington on the $1 bill, Thomas Jefferson on the $2 bill, Abraham Lincoln on the $5, Andrew Jackson on the $20, and Ulysses S. Grant on the $50. Alexander Hamilton and Ben Franklin were never presidents, but they are featured on the $10 and $100 bill, respectively.Who is on the 10 dollar bill because he was the first secretary of the Treasury? ›
Since the currency was redesigned and given a standard size in 1928, Hamilton has been on the $10. His portrait was engraved from the 1805 John Trumbull painting that hangs in New York's City Hall (you can see it behind the mayor's podium when he is on television).Who are the names on the $10 dollar note? ›
On the $10 banknote, these are the Bramble Wattle (Acacia victoriae) and the Sulphur-crested Cockatoo (Cacatua galerita). The new $10 banknote retains the portraits of Dame Mary Gilmore and AB 'Banjo' Paterson, which are drawn from the same source photographs represented on the first polymer $10 banknote.Who is on the $10 bill and the $20 bill? ›
WASHINGTON - Harriet Tubman, an African-American abolitionist who was born a slave, will stand with George Washington, Abraham Lincoln and Benjamin Franklin as among the iconic faces of U.S. currency.Who is on the vertical $10 bill? ›
Viola Desmond was a successful black businesswoman who was jailed, convicted and fined for defiantly refusing to leave a whites-only area of a movie theatre in 1946. Her court case was an inspiration for the pursuit of racial equality across Canada.Who's on the $2 bill? ›
The $2 note features a portrait of Thomas Jefferson on the front of the note and a vignette depicting the signing of the Declaration of Independence on the back of the note.Who is on the $5 and $10 bill? ›
$1: George Washington, first president. $2: Thomas Jefferson, third president, drafted the Declaration of Independence. $5: Abraham Lincoln, sixteenth president, saved the union. $10: Alexander Hamilton, not a president, died in a duel with Aaron Burr..Who's on the $1000 bill? ›
$1,000 Series 1918 Blue Seal
This bill, printed in 1918, has Founding Father Alexander Hamilton's face on the front and a soaring eagle on the back. It's fitting that Hamilton found his way onto some U.S. currency, since, among his other accomplishments, he's credited with founding the country's financial system.
Like its smaller cousin, the $500 bill, the $1,000 bill was discontinued in 1969.4 And like the $500 bill, the $1,000 bill would seem to have a lot more use now than it did then. Why? Inflation, of course. The Consumer Price Index (CPI) was at an estimated 36.8 back in 1969.Is Andrew Jackson on the $10 bill? ›
1923: The $10 United States Note was redesigned with a portrait of Andrew Jackson. Some of the design aspects of this note, such as the bottom border and numeral 10 overprinted with the word TEN, were transferred over to the series of 1928 $10 bill.Who is the woman on the $10 bill? ›
Viola Desmond on the $10 note is a history lesson — but not everyone is learning - National | Globalnews.ca.Who is the guy on the $20 dollar bill? ›
1918: A federal reserve banknote with Grover Cleveland on the front, and a back design similar to the 1914 Federal Reserve Note. 1928: Switched to a small-sized note with a portrait of Andrew Jackson on the face and the south view of the White House on the reverse.Who was on the $10 dollar bill before Hamilton? ›
$10 Bill - Alexander Hamilton
Founding Father and former Treasury Secretary Alexander Hamilton's face is on the $10 bill. The first $10 bill issued by the Federal Reserve in 1914 had President Andrew Jackson's face. Hamilton's face was swapped in 1929, and Jackson moved to the $20 bill.
The blue duck/Whio (Hymenolaimus malacorhynchos) was taken by photographer Rod Morris.Who is on the front of the $10,000 dollar bill? ›
The $10,000 bill featuring the portrait of President Lincoln's Secretary of the Treasury, Salmon P. Chase, was the highest denomination US currency ever to publicly circulate.Who is on the $10 bill 2017? ›
The $10 note features a portrait of Secretary Hamilton on the front of the note and a vignette of the United States Treasury Building on the back of the note.Who is on the 50th dollar bill? ›
The $50 note features a portrait of President Grant on the front of the note.Who is on the $5 bill? ›
The $5 note features a portrait of President Lincoln on the front of the note and a vignette of the Lincoln Memorial on the back of the note.
In its first redesign since 1996, the new-design $100 note features additional security features including a 3-D Security Ribbon and color-shifting Bell in the Inkwell. The new-design $100 note also includes a portrait watermark of Benjamin Franklin that is visible from both sides of the note when held to light.Was there ever a $3 bill made? ›
Though a gold three-dollar coin was produced in the 1800s, no three-dollar bill has ever been produced. Various fake US$3 bills have also been released over time. These generally poke fun at politicians or celebrities such as Richard Nixon, Michael Jackson, George W.Are $2.00 bills still being printed? ›
Even though the print is less common, $2 bills are still being printed (160 million entered circulation in 2019) and count as legal tender. You can even pick them up at a bank, though it'll likely only feature the design that took to the presses in 1976.Do banks still give out $2-dollar bills? ›
Can You Get a $2 Bill at a Bank? Yes. Although you likely won't get $2 bills unless you specifically ask for them, most banks carry a stock of them. The amount of $2 bills each bank carries will vary, but most will have a supply you can ask for when you're taking out or converting money.Who is on the $5,000 dollar bill? ›
James Madison was the fourth U.S. president and is often referred to as the “Father of the Constitution” because of his role in writing America's founding documents. His portrait has been featured on the 5,000 dollar denominations of multiple series of U.S. notes.Who is on the $100 dollar bill and why? ›
Statesman, inventor, diplomat, and American Founding Father Benjamin Franklin has been featured on the obverse of the bill since 1914. On the reverse of the banknote is an image of Independence Hall in Philadelphia, which has been used since 1928.Who is on the $100 0 dollar bill? ›
There are many reasons why Benjamin Franklin's portrait is in the highest US bill denomination . So important was Benjamin Franklin that his portrait is on 17.7 billion $100 notes in circulation as of December 2021 according to the Federal Reserve.Who is on the $1000000 dollar bill? ›
President Thomas Jefferson Million Dollar Bill. These million dollar bills are professionally printed on the front and back.What is the most expensive $2 bill? ›
For those wanted to cash in big on their $2, look for a red seal. If it was printed in 1890 and uncirculated, it's worth $4,500. Other $2 bills with the red seal range from being worth $300 to $2,500.What is the biggest dollar bill? ›
The Federal Reserve Board currently issues $1, $2, $5, $10, $20, $50, and $100 notes. The largest denomination Federal Reserve note ever issued for public circulation was the $10,000 note.
On July 14, 1969, the Department of the Treasury and the Federal Reserve System announced that currency notes in denominations of $500, $1,000, $5,000, and $10,000 would be discontinued immediately due to lack of use. Although they were issued until 1969, they were last printed in 1945.Who is on 100000 dollar bill? ›
Obverse Image: Portrait of Woodrow Wilson. Reverse Image: Decorative border in orange ink. Rays radiating from the center. The $100,000 bill is the highest denomination ever issued by the U.S. Federal Government.Why does my $10 dollar bill look different? ›
The bill also features microprinting that says "The United States of America," around the edge of the portraits frame. A redesigned $10 dollar bill made its debut on May 24, 2000. To help those with visual impairments, a large numeral 10 is featured on the back corner of the note, according to the Treasury Department.Has a woman ever been on a dollar bill? ›
To date, Washington remains the only woman honored on our paper currency. Her likeness was again used, next to her husband George, on the reverse (back) of the one-dollar note of 1896, part of the famous “Educational Series” of silver certificates.Who is the only woman on a US bill? ›
Martha Washington is the first and only woman to grace the primary portrait of U.S. paper currency.Is there a woman on any dollar bill? ›
Martha Washington remained the only woman whose image has been featured prominently on U.S. paper currency, the June 2022 post noted. That still is the case as of the date of publication of this Open Vault blog post. The Economy Museum has Washington 1886 and 1896 notes in its collection.Who is the black woman on the US currency? ›
Harriet Tubman, a former slave, and abolitionist who, as a “conductor” on the Underground Railroad helped hundreds of African-Americans escape slavery, will replace former U.S. President Andrew Jackson on the face of the $20 bill.Why is Benjamin Franklin on the $100 bill? ›
Answer and Explanation: Benjamin Franklin is on the $100 bill because of the impact he made on America and his work as one of the Founding Fathers. Although he was never president, Benjamin Franklin played a very important role in building our nation.Who is the lady on the 20 dollar bill? ›
Tubman lived through 22 presidential administrations, and almost 200 years after her birth, she would be linked to Obama, the first African American president, whose administration sought to honor her by placing her image on the 20-dollar bill.Who was on the $2 bill before Thomas Jefferson? ›
In March 1862, the first $2 bill was issued as a Legal Tender Note (United States Note) with a portrait of Alexander Hamilton; the portrait of Hamilton used was a profile view, different from the familiar portrait in use on the small-sized $10 bill since 1928.
The first president, George Washington, has been on currency ($1) the longest, going back to 1869. Presidents Ulysses S. Grant ($50), Alexander Hamilton ($10) and Abraham Lincoln ($5) all appeared in 1914. Andrew Jackson has been on the $20 bill since 1928.Who is going to replace Andrew Jackson on the $20 bill? ›
Why replacing Andrew Jackson with Harriet Tubman is a deeply symbolic move. In 2016, Becky Hobbs, an American country singer and Cherokee Nation citizen, told the Associated Press her and her elders have always despised Andrew Jackson.Why is Hamilton on the 10? ›
The source of the portrait on the $10 bill is John Trumbull's 1805 painting of Hamilton that belongs to the portrait collection of New York City Hall. The $10 bill is unique in that it is the only denomination in circulation in which the portrait faces to the left.Who is on a $50 dollar bill? ›
Microprinting in the border and in Ulysses Grant's shirt collar in the $50 note. (In the $100 note, microprinting is found in the numeral in the note's lower left-hand corner and on Benjamin Franklin's lapel.) Concentric fine-line printing in the background of the portrait and on the back of the note.Who is on a $100 dollar bill? ›
The $100 note features a portrait of Benjamin Franklin on the front of the note.Who is on $2 dollar bill? ›
The first use of Thomas Jefferson's portrait on $2 notes was on Series 1869 United States Notes.Who has a $5,000 dollar bill? ›
$5,000: James Madison, fourth president, helped write Federalist Papers. $10,000: Salmon P. Chase, not a president, Lincoln's Secretary of the Treasury. $100,000: Woodrow Wilson, 28th president, served during WWI.Is Harriet Tubman going to be on the $20 dollar bill? ›
Tubman would be the first woman and Black American to be printed on a U.S. bill denomination. Specifically, Shaheen's bill would require the U.S. Department of Treasury to print all $20 Federal Reserve notes after December 31, 2030 bearing the likeness of Harriet Tubman.Is the 2006 dollar series valid? ›
No, you do not have to trade in your old-design notes for new ones. All U.S. currency remains legal tender, regardless of when it was issued.What is the biggest U.S. dollar bill? ›
American paper currency comes in seven denominations: $1, $2, $5, $10, $20, $50, and $100. The United States no longer issues bills in larger denominations, such as $500, $1,000, $5,000, and $10,000 bills. But they are still legal tender and may still be in circulation.
Answer and Explanation: Benjamin Franklin is on the $100 bill because of the impact he made on America and his work as one of the Founding Fathers. Although he was never president, Benjamin Franklin played a very important role in building our nation.


here is the Neuschwanstein Castle located and why was it built? Castle Neuschwanstein was built on a hill overlooking Hohenschwangau, a village in southwestern Bavaria in Germany, and was constructed to serve as a retreat for Bavaria’s monarch, King Ludwig II. When was the Neuschwanstein Castle built and how was it paid for? King Ludwig began construction on the famous German castle in 1869 using his personal fortune as well as borrowed funds, but the palace was never fully completed.
Table of Contents
- 1 Discovering the Facts About Neuschwanstein Castle in Germany
- 2 The History of Castle Neuschwanstein
- 3 Neuschwanstein Castle’s Architecture
- 4 Frequently Asked Questions
Discovering the Facts About Neuschwanstein Castle in Germany
|Architect||Eduard Riedel (1813 – 1885)|
|Function||Palace, castle, and museum|
|Location||Hohenschwangau, Bavaria, Germany|
Neuschwanstein Castle in Germany was used as the King’s private residence until his passing in 1886. Following his death, the famous German castle was opened to the general public. Today, around 1.3 million people visit the site annually to learn more about the building’s history and to view the Neuschwanstein Castle’s architecture as well as explore inside Neuschwanstein Castle.
We shall start our own exploration of this famous German castle by first looking at its history.
The History of Castle Neuschwanstein
Castle Neuschwanstein’s design embodies the architectural style that was fashionable at that time known as “Castle Romanticism”. It was also heavily inspired by (and was built in order of) Richard Wagner, the famous composer. A journey in 1867 also provided inspiration for the Neuschwanstein Castle’s architecture, as King Ludwig encountered several castles that were being reconstructed from old castle ruins into magnificent palaces, such as the Château de Pierrefonds, located northeast of Paris.
Neuschwanstein project drawing by Christian Jank (1869); Christian Jank, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
For the King, these palaces represented a romanticized version of the architectural styles of the Middle Ages – an aesthetic he wanted to incorporate into his own palace. Richard Wagner’s operas also left a lasting impression on him, and many of the artworks that would be featured inside Neuschwanstein Castle were based on the narratives of these plays.
When Ludwig I passed away in 1868, the King suddenly had the necessary funds to build his dream Middle-Ages-themed palace far away from Munich, the capital of the royal empire at that time. In his letters to Richard Wagner, the King stated his intention to build a magnificent palace on the ruins of a castle that once stood atop the hill overlooking the village of Hohenschwangau.
He added that he wanted to add certain elements that would remind Wagner of scenes from his works such as Lohengrin (1850) and Tannhäuser (1848).
King Ludwig was so insistent on achieving the idealized romantic castle that he envisioned in his imagination that he commissioned Christian Jank, a stage designer, to draft the castle’s design. The architect Eduard Riedel was commissioned to construct a palace based on the draft concept. Due to certain technical reasons, the existing ruins could not be incorporated into the design. Initially, the design was much simpler, drawing stylistically from existing structures such as Nuremberg Castle.
Neuschwanstein front façade and surroundings (photochrom print, c. 1900); See page for author, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
However, these designs were rejected by the King who demanded extensive redrafts, insisting that he approve of each step before they proceeded. He was involved to such a degree that many people now view the Neuschwanstein Castle’s architecture as the result of his input more than the architects who were employed to build it. At the time of its initial construction, Castle Neuschwanstein’s design was ridiculed by architecture critics who viewed the massive palace as “Kitsch”.
Nevertheless, today, it is considered to be one of the most significant examples of European historicism.
Neuschwanstein Castle is composed of a number of distinct buildings that were built along a 150-meter cliff crest. The elongated structure is adorned with a multitude of towers, ornate turrets, balconies, gables, pinnacles, and statues. The complex of separate buildings provides picturesque views of the castle from all angles, framed by the mountains of the Tegelberg with the Pöllat River to the south and the lakes of the Alpine foothills to the north.
A 1901 postcard of Berg Castle; AnonymousUnknown author, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
It was created as the romantic view of a knight’s castle; but, unlike “actual” castles, whose construction is usually the consequence of decades of building activity, Castle Neuschwanstein was planned from the start as a deliberately asymmetric architecture, and developed in phases.
Standard castle features were incorporated, but true defenses, the most significant component of a medieval noble estate, were excluded.
The remnants of the medieval castles were entirely demolished in 1868, and the ruins of the ancient stronghold were blown up. The castle’s foundation stone was placed on the 5th of September, 1869; its cellar was completed in 1872, and construction up to the first story was finished in 1876, with the gatehouse built first. The gatehouse was finished and fully furnished by the end of 1882, enabling the king to take temporary quarters there and oversee the continuous construction work. In 1874, Riedel handed over control of the civil works to Georg von Dollmann. The Palas’ topping-out ceremony took place in 1880, and Ludwig moved into the new structure in 1884.
Once Dollmann fell out of favor with the Monarch, the work was handed over to Julius Hofmann the next year.
The castle started as a traditional brick structure and was eventually covered in various types of rock. The white limestone that they needed for the fronts was supplied by a local quarry. Schlaitdorf in Württemberg supplied the sandstone bricks for the gateways and bay windows. The arch ribs, windows, and capitals were all made of marble from Untersberg, near Salzburg. A steam crane that hoisted the cargo to the construction site assisted in the transportation of building supplies. Both boilers were examined on a regular basis by the newly formed Steam Boiler Inspection Association.
Neuschwanstein under construction: Bower still missing, Rectangular Tower under construction (photograph c. 1882–85); Johannes Bernhard, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
For over 20 years, the building site was the region’s primary employer. In 1880, the site was occupied by around 200 artisans, not including suppliers and other people who were indirectly participating in the building. When Ludwig insisted on very tight deadlines and urgent adjustments, up to 300 laborers per day were apparently active, often laboring at night assisted by the illumination of oil lamps. In 1870, an organization was formed to insure workers for a small monthly charge, which was supplemented by the King. Construction victims’ heirs received a little pension.
Ludwig moved into the (still incomplete) Palas in 1884, and for his mother Marie’s 60th birthday in 1885, he brought her to Neuschwanstein. The exterior construction of the Palas Hall was mainly built by 1886.
The initial wooden Marienbrücke over the Pöllat Gorge was replaced with a steel structure the following year by the King. Despite its enormity, Neuschwanstein Castle in Germany did not have the capacity for the royal court, instead housing just the King’s private quarters and servants’ quarters. The court buildings were built for ornamental rather than utilitarian purposes. The castle was basically built for King Ludwig II to function as a type of theatrical setting that was inhabitable.
By the time King Ludwig died, the castle was far from completion. The outward constructions of the Palas and the Gatehouse were nearly done, however, the Rectangular Tower was still covered in scaffolding. Construction on the Bower had not commenced but was finished in a reduced version by 1892 but without the anticipated statues of the female saints.
The Knights’ House was also reduced in design. In the King’s plans, the Knights’ House gallery columns were represented as the trunks of trees and the capitals as the accompanying crowns. Just the foundations for the royal complex’s centerpiece remained: a 90-meter-high keep designed for the top courtyard, situated above a three-nave church.
This was not realized, and a connecting wing between the Bower and the gatehouse was also never built.
Upon the King’s death, proposals for a terraced castle garden with a fountain were also abandoned. The royal living quarters of the palace were largely finished in 1886, with the corridors and lobbies painted in a simpler manner by 1888. The King’s ambition for a Moorish Hall was not realized, nor was the so-called Knights’ Bath, which, modeled after the Wartburg’s Knights’ Bath, was supposed to pay respect to the knights’ worship as a medieval baptism bath. In reality, a comprehensive extension of Neuschwanstein had never been intended, and there was no utilization plan for several chambers at the time of the King’s death. The monarch never intended for the castle to be open to the public.
View from the location of the unrealized chapel along the upper courtyard level; Taxiarchos228, FAL, via Wikimedia Commons
But, only two months after the death of the king, Prince-Regent Luitpold ordered that the castle be opened to paying guests. Until the outbreak of World War I, Neuschwanstein Castle in Germany was a consistent and valuable source of income for the House of Wittelsbach; in fact, King Ludwig’s palaces were most likely the Bavarian royal family’s single greatest source of revenue in the years preceding 1914. To guarantee a consistent flow of visitors, several rooms and court buildings were completed first. Guests were first able to walk freely throughout the castle, causing the furnishings to wear rapidly. The civil list was socialized when Bavaria became a republic in 1918.
The ensuing conflict with the House of Wittelsbach resulted in a division in 1923: Ludwig’s castles, including Castle Neuschwanstein, were given to the state and are currently administered by the Bavarian Palace Department.
Neuschwanstein Castle’s Architecture
Neuschwanstein Castle in Germany is considered to be a typical example of 19th-century architecture. Elements of Romanesque, Gothic, and Byzantine architecture and art were merged in an eclectic style and complemented with 19th-century technical advances. The basic design was initially intended to be neo-Gothic, but the famous German castle was ultimately largely built in Romanesque style. Both externally and inside Neuschwanstein castle, the result is very stylistic.
The king’s touch is felt throughout, as he took a personal interest in both the palace’s design and decor.
The interior, particularly the throne chamber, is a continuation of the design of the royal Sicilian Norman-Swabian era churches and chapels in Palermo associated with the House of Hohenstaufen. The artwork makes reference to the German myths of Lohengrin, the Swan Knight, throughout Castle Neuschwanstein. Multiple rooms have borders representing Wagner’s many operas, including a theater that permanently displays the set of one of Wagner’s plays. Several of the interior rooms are still unfinished, with only 14 completed before the King’s passing.
The Exterior of Neuschwanstein Castle
The Castle Neuschwanstein complex is accessed via the symmetrical Gatehouse, which is enclosed by two stair towers. The eastward-facing gate building is the only edifice in the castle with a high-contrast color scheme; the court fronts are made of yellow limestone, while the external walls are made of red bricks. The upper level of the Gatehouse is topped with a crow-stepped gable and functioned as the King’s first residence at Castle Neuschwanstein, from where he often surveyed the hall’s construction before it was completed. The Gatehouse’s ground floor was designed to house the stables.
The path through the Gatehouse leads straight onto the courtyard, which is divided into two levels, with the lower one delineated to the east by the Gatehouse and the upper one marked to the north by the Rectangular Tower’s foundations.
The courtyard’s southern end is open, offering views of the surrounding mountain landscape. The courtyard is bordered at its western end by a bricked embankment, where a protrusion denotes the choir of the initially planned chapel. This church, which was never constructed, was supposed to form the foundation of a 90-meter keep, the planned architectural centerpiece. The chapel keep’s foundations are still visible in the pavement of the upper courtyard. The Rectangular Tower is the most prominent building on the upper court level.
It, like most of the courtyard structures, primarily serves a decorative function as part of the complex. The Knights’ House marks the upper courtyard’s northern end. The Knights’ House, according to castle romanticism in Europe, would have served as the residence of the soldiers; in Neuschwanstein, however, estate and service chambers were housed here. The Palas Hall marks the western side of the courtyard. It is the castle’s primary residential structure and includes the King’s stateroom as well as the servants’ quarters.
The Palas is adorned with several ornate chimneys and beautiful towers, and the court front is decorated with colorful frescoes.
The Interior of Neuschwanstein Castle
The castle would have included more than 200 rooms if it had been fully realized, including quarters for visitors and staff, however, in the end, only 15 halls and rooms were ever fully completed. The Palas’ lower stories house servants’ and administrative rooms, as well as quarters for today’s castle administration, and the top stories house the King’s staterooms.
The Throne Hall occupies nearly the entire top level of the west-facing posterior building.
The castle was also equipped with several of the newest technological advancements of the 19th century. It featured a battery-powered bell system for the castle staff, as well as telephone lines, among other features. A Rumford oven, which rotated the skewer with its warmth and so automatically changed the turning speed, was included in the kitchen.
The hot air was utilized to power a central heating system, while other historical innovations included flowing warm water and even toilets with automated flushing.
The Hall of the Singers
The Hall of the Singers, located on the fourth story above the King’s quarters in the Palas’ court-side wing, is the biggest room in the castle. This area was one of the King’s favorite projects for the castle and was created as a combination of two of the Wartburg Castle’s rooms: the Ballroom and the Hall of the Singers.
The rectangular chamber was designed with scenes from the mythical tales of Parzival and Lohengrin. The Hall of the Singers was never intended for the reclusive King’s court celebrations. Instead, it functioned as a walkable memorial to the lifestyle of knights and courtly love in the Middle Ages, similar to the Throne Hall. A concert marking the 50th anniversary of Richard Wagner’s death was held in this hall in 1933.
The Hall of the Singers; Josef Albert, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
The Throne Hall
The Throne Hall is located in the Palas’ west wing. It is encircled on three sides by multicolored arcades, terminating in an apse that was supposed to house Ludwig’s throne but was never finished. The artworks on the throne dais depict the Twelve Apostles, Jesus, and six canonized monarchs. Wilhelm Hauschild produced the mural paintings in Throne Hall and the floor mosaic in the hall was only completed after the death of the king. The chandelier is designed to resemble a Byzantine crown.
The Throne Hall was designed to leave an impression of sacredness on those who entered.
The Royal Lodging Rooms
Apart from the big ceremonial chambers, King Ludwig II had other smaller rooms constructed for his personal use. The royal quarters are on the third story of the palace, in the Palace’s east wing. It is comprised of eight living rooms and various smaller rooms. Despite the extravagant decor, the living room, with its average room size and couches and suites, gives guests a relatively modern impression. King Ludwig II did not value the representational obligations of past eras when a monarch’s life was primarily public.
He also did not adhere to the aesthetic standards of the era, choosing to decorate the palace as he deemed suitable.
The interior design featured murals, tapestries, furniture, and other handicraft that usually corresponded to Ludwig’s favored themes: the grail myth, Wolfram von Eschenbach’s writings, and Richard Wagner’s interpretation of them. The eastward drawing room is decorated with elements from the mythology of Lohengrin. The furniture, which includes armchairs, a table, a sofa, and seats in a northward alcove, is pleasant and inviting. The passageway to the study is formed by a little artificial grotto next to the drawing room. The dining room, which is situated opposite the study, is decorated with images of courtly love.
The Throne Hall; Josef Albert, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
The only remaining neo-Gothic rooms in the castle are the bedroom opposite the dining room and the later house chapel. A massive bed decorated with carvings occupies the King’s chamber. Around 14 carvers labored on the bed canopy with its multiple pinnacles and the oaken paneling for over four years. On the night of the 11th of June, 1886, the King was arrested in this chamber.
The servants’ quarters in the Palas’ basement are sparsely furnished with huge wood furnishings.
Apart from one table and one cupboard, there are two 1.80-meter-long beds. The chambers were divided from the passage that connects the outdoor steps to the main staircase by opaque glass windows, permitting the King to arrive and depart without being seen. The staff was not permitted to use the main stairs, but only the considerably smaller and steeper servants’ stairway.
That concludes our look at the facts about Neuschwanstein Castle. This renowned old castle is renowned as an architectural paradox. It was constructed at a period when castles were no longer needed as fortresses, and despite its idealized medieval style, King Ludwig II ordered it to include all of the latest technology amenities. Ludwig was a supporter of the composer, Richard Wagner, and the stories that inspired the composer are represented by wall paintings throughout the castle. Unfortunately, the king did not live to see the completion of the castle. In fact, it was never fully complete to the original plan and was largely simplified after his passing. After his passing, the castle was opened to the general public at a fee.
Frequently Asked Questions
When Was the Neuschwanstein Castle Built?
Construction started in 1869 after King Ludwig II had explored several castles in Europe that had been constructed from castle ruins. He hoped to do the same in his own country and wanted it to be a retreat based on the castles and landscape he had envisioned after listening to Richard Wagner’s music and plays.
Where Is the Neuschwanstein Castle Located?
It is located near the village of Hohenschwangau, built on the hills surrounding the village. The village is located in Bavaria and was built as a place where the king could live out his fantasies of residing in a Medieval palace. It would act as an escape from Munich, an inhabitable scene from a play or mythical story.
Justin van Huyssteen is a freelance writer, novelist, and academic originally from Cape Town, South Africa. At present, he has a bachelor’s degree in English and literary theory and an honor’s degree in literary theory. He is currently working towards his master’s degree in literary theory with a focus on animal studies, critical theory, and semiotics within literature. As a novelist and freelancer, he often writes under the pen name L.C. Lupus.
Justin’s preferred literary movements include modern and postmodern literature with literary fiction and genre fiction like sci-fi, post-apocalyptic, and horror being of particular interest. His academia extends to his interest in prose and narratology. He enjoys analyzing a variety of mediums through a literary lens, such as graphic novels, film, and video games.
Learn more about the Art in Context Team.


he first Gothic cathedrals were built in the second part of the 12th century. The building of Gothic churches required architects, stonemasons, expert carpenters, and glassworkers, and it could take hundreds of years to build, which utilized the labor and contributions of entire cities. The gothic architecture reflected the ideals, tastes, and spirituality of the time. Today we will explore the world’s most noteworthy examples of Gothic church architecture, examining the reasons why they were built, how they were built, and discussing the Gothic cathedral interior and exterior elements.
Table of Contents
- 1 Noteworthy Gothic Cathedrals
- 1.1 Notre Dame de Paris (1163) – Paris, France
- 1.2 Seville Cathedral (1172) – Seville, Spain
- 1.3 Chartres Cathedral (1194) – Chartres, France
- 1.4 Siena Cathedral (1215) – Siena, Italy
- 1.5 Zagreb Cathedral (1217) – Zagreb, Croatia
- 1.6 Salisbury Cathedral (1220) – Salisbury, England
- 1.7 Bourges Cathedral (1230) – Bourges, France
- 1.8 York Minster (1230) – York, England
- 1.9 Wells Cathedral (1239) – Wells, England
- 1.10 Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi (1253) – Assisi, Italy
- 1.11 Reims Cathedral (1275) – Reims, France
- 1.12 Orvieto Cathedral (1290) – Orvieto, Italy
- 1.13 Saint Vitus Cathedral (1344) – Prague, Czech Republic
- 1.14 Milan Cathedral (1386) – Milan, Italy
- 1.15 Cologne Cathedral (1560) – Cologne, Germany
- 2 Frequently Asked Questions
Noteworthy Gothic Cathedrals
Sometimes people assume that Gothic churches are connected to the Germanic people known as the Goths who thrived in the early 400s AD. Gothic architecture only arose in the 12th century, known then as the “French Style”, and it wasn’t until the 16th century that it became referred to as Gothic architecture, which was a derogatory term, as the actual Goths were regarded as barbaric and primitive.
Light and verticality are essential features of Gothic Church architecture, with the glass-stained windows enabling much sunlight to enter the Gothic cathedral interior spaces.
Although examples of Gothic architecture can be observed in many palaces, town halls, and castles from the period, the style is best exemplified by the beautiful Gothic cathedrals found across Europe. Here is our list of noteworthy Gothic churches for you to explore.
Notre Dame de Paris (1163) – Paris, France
|Architect||Pierre de Montreuil (1200 – 1266)|
Notre Dame de Paris is probably the most recognizable and well-known of all medieval Gothic churches. It was constructed over the ruins of two previous churches, which were erected on a Gallo-Romanesque sanctuary devoted to Jupiter’s cult. Its facade, enclosed by two Gothic towers and dedicated in 1189, is one of France’s most iconic landmarks.
Until the erection of the Eiffel Tower in the 19th century, the spires of the famous cathedral towered above the Parisian skyline.
Notre Dame de Paris (1163) in Paris, France; Ali Sabbagh, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons
It has remarkable dimensions: it is a Latin cross cathedral with five naves and double aisles. Notre Dame was also one of the first structures to incorporate flying buttresses, making it a spectacular achievement of the ambitious Gothic Rayonnant style. It’s tough to ignore the charm of the statues in this Gothic church.
The cathedral was designed as a “poor person’s book,” with sculptures telling religious stories through visuals to masses of illiterate worshippers.
Seville Cathedral (1172) – Seville, Spain
|Architect||Alonso Martínez (c. 14th century)|
The Cathedral of Seville, conceived on a grand scale by the Canons of Seville as early as 1401, remains Europe’s largest church. It does not disappoint, and not only because of its sheer enormity – the main nave rises to a breathtaking 42 meters. There is a variety of art within, not least the magnificent Main Altar, and while the architecture is predominantly Gothic, there are a few Islamic architectural aspects.
Though the main Almohad Mosque was destroyed to make place for it, certain characteristics survive.
Some are prominent, such as the Giralda tower, but others are less so. The courtyard was once a part of the mosque. It was significantly remodeled in the 13th century for use as a monastery and cemetery. Traditionally, an apse with an atrium at the east end would be expected in a Gothic Cathedral.
The Royal Chapel is the burial ground of generations of Spanish Royalty.
Chartres Cathedral (1194) – Chartres, France
|Architect||Master of Charters (c. 12th century)|
The Chartres Cathedral, dedicated to the devotion of the Virgin Mary, is a Gothic architectural landmark. Its portals, stained-glass windows, embellishments, and carved statues are in superb condition. They make the church one of the best-preserved specimens for studying the period. The western facade is contained between two towers, as is typical of French Gothic. One features a complex and thin construction with spandrels.
It’s a great representation of extravagant Gothic.
The Portail Royal has three entries with a multitude of reliefs, sculptures, and statuary columns. Their iconography, which depicts the cycles of the seasons, the constellations, and even a strange bestiary, is still tied to Romanesque influences in certain cases. Nevertheless, it is the famed labyrinth of Chartres that draws symbolists. It is situated on the main nave’s floor and portrays a sanctification road that travelers must take to discriminate between evil and good.
A word of caution: there is just one exit.
Siena Cathedral (1215) – Siena, Italy
|Architect||Giovanni Pisano (1248 – 1315)|
Despite their numerous recurring aspects, Gothic churches in Europe are all differentiated by local characteristics and national differences. In Italy, for instance, Gothic church architecture expanded throughout the country, although it was less intense compared to the other side of the Alps. For that reason, Italian gothic is often known as temperate gothic.
There are no Gothic churches in Italy that reach dizzying heights or employ the immense sculptures found in their French counterparts.
Siena Cathedral (1215) in Siena, Italy; © Raimond Spekking
The Italian Gothic church architecture was kept simple and traditional. The façade of Siena was designed on two levels and incorporates aspects of the French Gothic heritage as well as classical architecture. The utilization of polychrome marble and geometric ornamentation adds a Tuscan touch to the construction. The top level is more evocative of French Gothic churches, featuring pinnacles and gothic ornamentation.
The Gothic cathedral interior features an exquisite rose window by Duccio di Boninsegna and a carved marble pulpit by Nicola Pisano.
Zagreb Cathedral (1217) – Zagreb, Croatia
|Architect||Hermann Bollé (1845 – 1926)|
The Zagreb Cathedral’s history began in the late 11th century, shortly after the founding of the Zagreb bishopric. In 1217, an early church in neo-Romanesque design was dedicated. It was severely destroyed during the Mongol invasion in 1242, but repair began shortly after. The eastern portion of the Cathedral was built in Gothic style between 1264 and 1284, with lower vaults.
Western walls, as well as lower portions of the two belfries, were built between 1366 and 1433.
Vaults of identical height were completed in all of the aisles and the raised choir between 1500 and 1510. The nave was altered and elevated. By this point, the Ottoman Empire’s expansion had put Zagreb in peril. The Gothic cathedral gained added baroque embellishment in the 18th century, including a baroque pulpit and beautifully adorned altars.
With the Turkish invasion gone, the fortification walls on the east and south sides were repaired and converted into the archbishop’s residence.
Salisbury Cathedral (1220) – Salisbury, England
|Architect||Richard Poore (d. 1228)|
The Anglican cathedral is one of Britain’s greatest representations of early-English Gothic architecture, and it is important to note that it is one of only three churches in England without a ring of bells, the other two being Norwich and Ely. Salisbury is home to the highest church spire in the United Kingdom.
It has the world’s oldest operating mechanical clock, which dates from around 1386, as well as a remarkable collection of gothic stained-glass windows, notably the “Rose Window”.
Salisbury Cathedral (1220) in Salisbury, England; Antony McCallum: Who is the uploader, photographer, full copyright owner and proprietor of WyrdLight.com, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
The current Salisbury Cathedral was erected in just 38 years, from 1220 until 1258, under the administration of Bishop Richard Poore, who provided the site for the cathedral. It is without a doubt one of the most recognizable medieval structures in the country. The presence of possibly the single most significant artifact in English history – the Magna Carta – is undeniably the major attraction.
Since 1215, just four copies have survived, with Salisbury being the finest preserved.
Bourges Cathedral (1230) – Bourges, France
|Architect||Guillaume de Danjeon (1140 – 1209)|
From the 12th through to the 15th century, the Gothic style flourished over Western Europe until being superseded by Renaissance designs. With the erection of the Abbey of Saint-Denis, the first cathedral, France became the place from which the style would emerge and spread.
The Bourges cathedral, devoted to Saint-Étienne, the first Christian martyr, is one of the most representative, even if not the most renowned, of these French masterpieces.
This majestic structure was built on the site of an older monastery starting in the late 1100s. It was closely tied to the Capetian dominance of the region, for which it would become a monument. The two asymmetrical turrets, one with lavish Gothic crockets and pinnacles, and the imposing system of double flying buttresses distinguish Bourges Cathedral.
Its carved portals are especially noteworthy, notably the one portraying the Last Judgment.
York Minster (1230) – York, England
|Architect||Walter de Gray (1180 – 1255)|
Originally a wooden church, it was eventually constructed in stone, and King Oswald oversaw its completion. It was significantly repaired in 664 AD, and once again following a fire in 741 AD. This structure survived a bit longer but was demolished in 1069 during the Norman assault on the city. York Minster is an example of Gothic architecture. It was previously a Norman cathedral.
Archbishop Roger of Pont L’Eveque constructed a Norman choir around the end of the next century.
He appears to have been inspired by Durham Cathedral’s design. The current building’s construction started in 1220, was directed by Archbishop Walter de Grey, and lasted over 200 years. It represents almost every phase of Gothic architecture from 1230 until 1475. This design is distinguished by its pointed arches and ornate embellishments.
The original Norman structure was demolished as work continued.
Wells Cathedral (1239) – Wells, England
|Architect||William Joy (1329 – 1348)|
The very first representative early-Gothic English architecture, Wells Cathedral in South-West England, broke with the prior Romanesque style. Its design exemplifies how the Gothic architecture style took on several national variants. The most notable feature of the structure is arguably the spectacular West Front, which was finished in the mid-1200s and features over 300 human figure sculptures.
Sculptures in French designs were normally positioned in the gateway, but at Wells, they cover the full façade’s recesses.
Because the carved figures were painted blue, red, and white throughout the Medieval period, the impact must have been much more spectacular. Another intriguing aspect of Wells Cathedral is its musical history. The quatrefoils over the entryway have holes in them.
This allowed the choristers’ voices to be heard straight from the façade, a feature that distinguishes this intricate Gothic church.
Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi (1253) – Assisi, Italy
|Architect||Elias of Cortona (1180 – 1253)|
The Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi is a popular pilgrimage destination for Catholics all around the world. Its architecture will likely amaze visitors since it is a real blend of Gothic and Romanesque features. It symbolizes the start of a new creative period.
In truth, the basilica appears to be a true twofold church, with distinct buildings and functions.
Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi (1253) in Assisi, Italy; Berthold Werner, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
The Upper Basilica, more in the Gothic style, was intended for events and preaching, whilst the Lower Basilica, which included the crypt of Saint Francis, the order’s namesake, was intended for reflection and more private devotion. The church’s design achieves a fine and balanced unification; there are characteristics associated with the Umbrian Romanesque traditions, such as the gabled facade and the sturdy quadrangular towers, as well as parts inspired by the more contemporary Gothic style.
Pointed arches in the nave, buttresses, and ogival cross vaults are examples of this influence.
Reims Cathedral (1275) – Reims, France
|Architect||Jean d’Orbais (1175 – 1231)|
Reims Cathedral is regarded as one of the most important examples of Gothic architecture in the world. What gives this structure its personality? For 800 years, it played a pivotal part in French history. The French-German reconciliation was also officially confirmed in Reims in 1962.
The buttresses at Reims Cathedral are also lovely ornamental embellishments that represent the cathedral’s grandeur.
Because of the arches that support the building’s framework, bigger apertures have been created, enabling light to penetrate through the spectacular stained-glass windows. The lit cathedral became a spectacular light display, just as its designers planned in the early 13th century.
There are also 2,300 sculptures that add to the cathedral’s charm: arches, statue columns, ornamental figures both inside and outside, tabernacles, and the famed smiling angel.
Orvieto Cathedral (1290) – Orvieto, Italy
|Architect||Lorenzo Maitani (1275 – 1330)|
The cathedral of Orvieto may not be one of the most well-known cathedrals in Italy, but it certainly possesses its beauty since it is a hidden jewel. It was constructed towards the end of the year 1200 by the order of Pope Nicholas IV to commemorate the Eucharistic Miracle of Bolsena, a town near Orvieto.
According to tradition, while celebrating Mass in the little community, a priest discovered that the holy body was bleeding on the corporal.
The precious relic is presently housed in a chapel within the cathedral. Orvieto’s church includes gothic characteristics based on an Italian interpretation. Its rose window, which Orcagna restored, is very noteworthy and has a unique form, with a 22-sided polygon pattern. The facade of the cathedral is exquisite and is regarded as a great work of ecclesiastical architecture.
It has three big bronze doors, stunning gilded mosaics, and a magnificent rose window.
Saint Vitus Cathedral (1344) – Prague, Czech Republic
|Architect||Peter Parler (1333 – 1399)|
|Location||Prague, Czech Republic|
St Vitus Cathedral is a Gothic church of the Roman Catholic denomination situated on the grounds of Prague Castle, rising over Prague’s Lesser Town. It is without a doubt one of the most notable and recognizable monuments in Prague and throughout Czechia. The Gothic cathedral is much more than a wonderful destination of Christian devotion and religious retreat.
It can only be defined as an exceptional piece of art and an awe-inspiring sight. Seeing it with your own eyes is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
St Vitus Cathedral is regarded as one of the nation’s most prominent monuments and a spiritual icon of the Czech Republic. St Vitus Cathedral has housed the bishop of the Prague diocese since the 10th century. Aside from an inconceivable number of services and other Catholic events, several Czech monarchs and queens were coronated here.
It is the last resting place of many monarchs, saints, lords, and archbishops.
Milan Cathedral (1386) – Milan, Italy
|Architect||Donato Bramante (1444 – 1514)|
Milan is a vibrant and bustling city, but its historic cathedral is regarded as the city’s heart. It is devoted to Saint Mary, and the gilded figure of the Virgin, positioned on the topmost spire, is an iconic emblem of the city. The Milan Cathedral is not intimidated by large crowds: it is the biggest church in Italy (except for the Vatican) and can hold up to 40,000 individuals. It is also lavishly ornamented with gothic sculptures, figures, and gargoyles.
Among them is the “New Law” (1810), a near-identical replica of the Statue of Liberty.
The building of Milan Cathedral took over 600 years and it is still not done! Its facade was inaugurated in 1418 but remained incomplete for centuries until Napoleon intervened. It is still the focus of ongoing repairs and cleanings to preserve its white and pink marble.
The preservation project was initiated by king Gian Galeazzo Visconti to commemorate his family’s regional expansion.
Cologne Cathedral (1560) – Cologne, Germany
|Architect||Master Gerhard (1210 – 1271)|
Germany is not just known for its medieval castles and fortifications; Gothic churches also made an impression throughout the Middle Ages. Cologne Cathedral, for instance, is Northern Europe’s biggest Gothic church. Its two towers with massive spires are over 150 meters tall, making it the highest structure in the world until 1884.
As a pilgrimage destination, it also ranks among the most visited locations in Germany.
Cologne Cathedral has housed the relics of the Three Kings since the Middle Ages, which were removed from another cathedral in Milan by Frederick Barbarossa, the Holy Roman Emperor. This holy relic was incredibly important for Christian devotion and is now housed in a golden casket designed by the renowned goldsmith Nicolas de Verdun.
The Gothic cathedral has also survived many of the 20th century’s worst dramatic periods.
During WWII, it was bombed 14 times, and one of its beautiful stained-glass windows was destroyed. Gerhard Richter, a modern visual artist, recreated it in 2007, producing a modern stained-glass window replete with pixels – a new kind of Gothic glasswork.
Gothic architecture has become one of the globe’s most unique construction styles, both aesthetically extravagant and philosophically transcendental. Though it started in the Middle Ages, the unique genre continues to enchant today, as seen in examples of some of Europe’s breathtaking Gothic cathedral architecture. While Gothic architecture appears to be a unique building style, its distinctive design has been influenced by a variety of inspirations through the ages.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do You Define Gothic Architecture?
Gothic architecture is a European architectural form that emphasizes height and has an ornate and exquisite appearance. Despite its initial French origins, the Gothic architecture style may be found in cathedrals, castles, and other comparable structures across Europe and beyond. While the Gothic style varies depending on age, location, and kind of structure, major architectural characteristics such as pointed arches, massive stained-glass windows, flying buttresses, rib vaults, and rich ornamentation are common.
What Are the Characteristics of Gothic Cathedrals?
The gothic architecture used and altered Romanesque components to create a new architectural style with exaggerated arches, expanded vaulting, and bigger windows. Nevertheless, in addition to redefining these features, Gothic architecture discarded one crucial aspect of Romanesque construction: substantial walls. Gothic architects used flying buttresses to support higher, more delicate structures with thinner walls. These stone constructions enabled builders to build airy castles and churches that stretched toward the skies.
Justin van Huyssteen is a freelance writer, novelist, and academic originally from Cape Town, South Africa. At present, he has a bachelor’s degree in English and literary theory and an honor’s degree in literary theory. He is currently working towards his master’s degree in literary theory with a focus on animal studies, critical theory, and semiotics within literature. As a novelist and freelancer, he often writes under the pen name L.C. Lupus.
Justin’s preferred literary movements include modern and postmodern literature with literary fiction and genre fiction like sci-fi, post-apocalyptic, and horror being of particular interest. His academia extends to his interest in prose and narratology. He enjoys analyzing a variety of mediums through a literary lens, such as graphic novels, film, and video games.
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With reference to at least two novels, explore the ways in which point of view informs our reading of narrative fiction
Point of view is the position from which the action of a narrative is viewed and presented to the reader. While there are various forms of point of view, the chief distinctions often cited are third person narratives and first person narratives. The third person narrator may be omniscient, and is as a result able to show an unrestricted knowledge of the story's events from outside them. There is an alternative form of third person narrator: one who may confine the reader's knowledge of events by whatever is observed by a single character or small group of characters. Limited point of view allows the story to be told by the protagonist of the story and therefore allows the reader to feel a greater connection to that character and to empathise with or dislike them depending on the reader's personal preference, or the author's projection. This point of view is the 'limited point of view'. The first person narrative point of view is often restricted to his or her partial knowledge and experience. Therefore, there is limited access to the emotions and hidden thoughts of the other characters in such a narrative. Jane Austen extended the definition of point of view through her use and refinement of free and indirect discourse. By this method, Jane Austen merged the thoughts of her narrators and of her characters. However, it still remains primarily a form of third person narration and it utilises some of the characteristics of first person direct speech. Through this method Austen gives the reader a much closer relationship to the characters, whilst enabling the author to convey personal points of view on given situations.
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Defoe's Moll Flanders is the story of eponymous character and her infamous, often illegal, life. The narrative is written in first person, seen through the eyes of an older reminiscent Moll. Moll Flanders is an 'autobiographical' account, which sees Moll Flanders describe her life up until the point of her repentance in Newgate Prison. Defoe is experimenting with the narrative form in this novel by writing an autobiographical confession of a woman. Written from Moll's point of view, it allows the reader to empathise with Moll and ultimately begin to care about what happens to her. As the events of the narrative are seen through the eyes of Moll there are certain events of Moll's life that remain and ambiguous. Moll as the narrator is able to set the tone and pace of the narrative, she can choose to go into great detail about events in her life, or skim over them as she pleases, for example the details of Moll's first marriage are restricted to one page , demonstrating how unimportant were the five years of her marriage to Robin.
Defoe's principle of point of view was to commit himself to the fiction of Moll's life, while utilising his imagination to fully convey a seemingly factual account of events. This juxtaposition of styles enabled Defoe to present Moll's point of view. Moll's point of view is expressed throughout and is the only point of view that is prevalent in the novel. According to the preface, the story that Moll relates has only been edited by Defoe. He clearly points out that this is for the sake of decency. According to Defoe, Moll's words were, 'having been written in Language more like one still in Newgate'. By emphasising that this novel is the story of Moll told by Moll, Defoe has defined the point of view of the novel. This definition is important to the reader, as it immediately informs them that what they are going to read is a true account of Moll's life. The reader is instantly connected to Moll much beyond the action of just reading her story. Instead, the reader is aware that they will be seeing events from an up-close and more personal manner. As a result, the drama of the narrative is dictated by what Moll chooses to exaggerate and what she chooses to ignore or, only briefly comment upon. The tensions between these and the readers' close connection to Moll through the first person point of view drive the narrative. Utilising this narrative technique, Defoe creates a character through which the reader can feel and experience Moll's particular and peculiar perception of the world and compare it to the world as it is. As the novel is allegedly autobiographical, and more so that Moll is apparently telling her story near the end of her life, this combination of narrative techniques creates a double point of view: there are arguably two women in this novel, the younger, crafty, scheming and immoral Moll and the older, reminiscent, repentant, Moll.
Through telling the story from a more mature and experienced position, the 'older' Moll's character and philosophy filter through into her telling of 'younger' Moll's past. The younger Moll essentially still rules the older Moll; her own understanding of life comes from the relating of these experiences. The reader is aligned with the older Moll as the reader's sympathies and understanding of Moll are shaped by her escapades as a younger character. The reader knows redemption is forthcoming as it is stated in the title page, however, the reader begins to sympathise with Moll as she inexplicably descends in to moral ambiguity, crime and prostitution. This almost unconscious double view point of Moll shapes the novel and the readers understanding of the character.
Moll's, narration of her life takes the form of her awareness of her past through various stages: innocence, dishonesty, guilt and finally redemption. Moll's transition through these stages ultimately hinges upon material gain. She repeatedly emphasises her achievements in gaining material independence and the craft she utilises in achieving such independence. Defoe uses irony in describing Moll's boasting in her ascendance to fame, particularly when Moll boasts of outdoing the infamous Moll Cut Purse. Moll narrates the story of her past in the spirit in which she lived the events and, although she narrates with energy and pleasure, she occasionally expresses regret at some occasional events of youthful inexperience. Hindsight to Moll is merely a way in which she expresses how she would have altered events to have made life better for her. For instance, she confides that had she known then what she now knows from experience, her first affair would have been a different matter:
... if I had known his thoughts, and how hard he supposed I would be to be gain'd, I might have made my own terms, and if I had not capitulated for an immediate marriage, I might for a maintenance till marriage, and might have had what I would; ....
Humorously, Moll's sorrow at this event is expressed, with sincerity. However, the fact that she is repenting this affair purely on the basis that she could have made it of more benefit to herself is heavily and amusingly ironic. Such repentance and musings on her past allow the reader to understand the true nature of Moll's character. The narrative style makes it possible for the reader to truly feel as if they understand Moll. The first person point of view allows for a closer examination of who Moll is and what it is that drives her, even though it is a perspective that is derived from a Moll of more advanced years. There are, however, limitations to Moll's point of view. Moll's obsession upon independence and financial gain prohibits the reader from seeing beyond that point of view. Moll is capable of giving the briefest overview of passing years with, at most, a few words of comment. In her eyes, not much of importance has happened, as with the five years of marriage to Robin. This does not give Moll a rounded character in the eyes of the reader, instead, the reader is left with the impression that there is perhaps more to Moll, yet there is no way of extracting it from the text as Moll's narration allows the reader to see only what she is prepared to reveal. Conversely, small events can be extremely significant to Moll, and she offers pages of narrative to particular details she feels are important, ultimately stories of her attempting to win financial independence. As a result of this episodic, controlled re-telling of events, the reader is left with the impression that life according to Moll is a sequence of events she takes pride in relating
Through a series of episodes, Defoe creates a character driven by the need for material gain. Moll is not a commentator of the situation of the poor in London, and arguably Defoe does little to enforce a criticism of London during his period. Assumptions such as these are left to the individual reader. Defoe's Moll comments upon those things that are important to her. She does not look at London as a city populated by prostitutes and whores, instead she sees potential escape routes and items to steal in shop windows. Her telling of the story is reliant upon her observations and musings of those things that affect her directly:
Defoe is true to his art, to Moll's point of view. Moll never sees her background with any real perception, although she is aware of some of the reasons for her youthful depravities. Despite the fact that she roams about London, about England and America, she notices very little of eighteenth-century panorama
It would be incorrect however, to only presume that Moll is purely motivated by the need for and material gain. Although Moll's point of view primarily informs the reader that she is interested in only the procurement of a better life through material wealth, the reader learns that Moll is motivated by envy for what she considers gentlewomen and by her ceaseless forceful nature to dominate her environment and to climb out of situation she was born into. Her descent into a life of crime is driven by her will to create a better life for herself. The irony is obvious; she cannot remove herself from her origins without at first accepting them and then utilising the skills implicit in that lifestyle. Moll's point of view throughout the narrative also forces the reader to question whether or not her repentance should be seen as genuine, or just another attempt by Moll to improve her situation. Given her situation, facing execution, it is entirely probable that she seemed to repent, as she claims, '...a secret suprizing Joy at the Prospect of being a true Penitent, and obtaining the Comfort of a Penitent...' However this supposed penitence is offset by the lack of contrition after her transportation: perversely Moll, during her transportation to America, does all she can to secure herself a good berth for the voyage, further emphasising her need to be better than the rest. The reader is forced to make their own judgements as to whether or not Moll truly repents. Her tale, thus far, of immorality, cannot be ignored. Moll's point of view here does little to inform the reader of her true nature. Instead, it asks the reader to engage their own feelings on the topic. Moll herself states:
"This may be thought inconsistent in it self, and wide from the Business of this Book; Particularly, I reflect that many of those who may be pleas'd and diverted with the Relation of the wild and wicked part of my Story, may not relish this, which is really the best part of my Life, the most Advantageous to myself, and the most instructive to others; such however will I hope allow me the liberty to make my Story compleat."
Jane Austen's Persuasion offers a different perspective of narrative fiction than that of Moll Flanders, by providing the reader with an entirely different point of view. Where as Defoe's novel is written in the first person form, allowing the reader to see and learn exactly what the narrator wants them to, Persuasion is written in the third person. The reader sees the events of the narrative unfold through the eyes of the protagonist, Anne Elliot, but also has the benefit of an authorial voice. This element allows the reader to see a broader view of events. While the reader learns more about the protagonist's feelings and emotions, events and action in the narrative are arguably less self obsessed, as they are in Moll Flanders, and less biased, taking in a more rounded view of the situation and thereby allowing the reader to gain a more reasonable and reliable understanding of the narrative.
Persuasion, like Jane Austen's previous novels, relies upon her ability to craft a narrative based within narrow limits. Her narrative never strays beyond family tensions, romance and the social classes that she would have interacted with. Austen's works are contained to a small social world of the rural/landed gentry and the similar social circles inhabiting Bath. Walter Scott says of Austen:
That young lady has a talent for describing the involvements and feelings and characters of ordinary life, which is to me the most wonderful I ever met. The big Bow-wow strain I can do myself like any now going; but the exquisite touch, which renders ordinary commonplace things and characters interesting, from the truth of description and sentiment, is denied me'
This vindication of her methods highlights how well received and regarded were her novels. It also emphasises the understanding that Austen had of personal relationships and the people of her society. Her works contain nothing superfluous and she does not introduce to the narrative anything that is not directly relevant to her central theme of the personal relationships between people.
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In Persuasion, there appears to be a change in Austen's style of writing. In her earlier novels, Austen makes use of free and indirect speech. However, in Persuasion, Austen uses it to a greater extent. According to Norman Page, 'it is Persuasion that offers the fullest and most important use of free indirect speech in Jane Austen's work, and represents a remarkable and fascinating step towards technical experimentation at the end of the novelists life.'
This technique employed by Austen of the third person narrative told through various points of view through Anne, showing her views, observations and reactions but still in the form of a third person narrative liberates the reader. Austen is still in control of the text, guiding the narrative and shaping the readers understanding of the events, but rather than being merely an outside observer, speaking through a protagonist, she empowers Anne Elliot, and gives her a descriptive ability much like Moll's in Moll Flanders. Persuasion is relatively light-textured in comparison to Austen's Emma. Anne Elliot, over the course of the novel, and because of the narrative is persuaded to think better of herself. The readers sympathies are engaged, the use of free indirect discourse allows the reader to see actions from Anne's perspective whilst taking in the wider view of events and thereby emphasising Anne's situation. Anne thinks freely whilst her actions are curtailed. The reader can see that she wishes to act with the carefree spontaneity she sees and admires in other characters, but is unable to do so. Everything in the narrative is seen from Anne's point of view. Anne's aptitude for self ridicule allows the free indirect style of her thoughts 'can offer a seemingly sufficient scope'. The other characters of the novel only have a place in relation to Anne. For example, Benwick, a character of education and literary learning's, is given no direct speech, instead all of his dialogues are reported by Anne. Due to this focused point of view, Anne seemingly becomes isolated from almost all of the characters within the text, As Gillian Beer states,
Anne's predicament is that she is not so much a commonwealth as a solitary island, endlessly discoursing within herself on the niceties of passion and withdrawal, the semiotics of gesture, the significant silence or the burst of doubled speech. She can speak to no one of her feelings, not even Lady Anne Russell. The reader is therefore placed in a peculiarly tender relation to Anne as the only other inhabitant of her commonwealth'.
Jane Austen was a moralist as well as an entertainer. She could be a harsh judge of the society in which she lived and often in her novels she presents the reader with a carefully considered series of judgements. Her characters are the vessels for conveying these judgements, either dramatically or by Austen's direct comments about them. In Persuasion she offers an obvious comment on the society she inhabited through Sir Walter Elliot, 'Vanity was the beginning and the end of Sir Walter Elliot's character. Vanity of person and of situation'. This comment, is later emphasised by the drama of Sir Walters departure, 'Sir Walter prepared with condescending bows for all the afflicted tenantry and cottagers who might have a hint to shew themselves'. Austen's ironic tone passes a judgement on not only Sir Walter, but all those who posses his qualities of vanity and stupidity, whilst lacking a truly didactic moralising tone.
The power of free and direct speech enabled Jane Austen to utilise her satirical piquancy, whilst removing her authorial voice from the narrative. She is ultimately the narrator of the text and Anne is her mouthpiece, however free indirect discourse defines the separation between author and character.
How Anne's more rigid requisitions might have taken, is of little consequence. Lady Russell's had no success at all-could not be put up with-were not to be borne. 'What! Every comfort of life knocked off! Journeys, London, servants, horses, table,-contractions and restrictions every where. To live no longer with the decencies of a private gentleman! No, he would sooner quit Kellynch-hall at once, than remain in it on such disgraceful terms'.
This report of the persuasion of Sir Walter to rent Kellynch-hall reports actual phrases whilst doing it indirectly, so that the narration combines the voice and moral perspective of the original speaker with that of an external narrator. The words within the quotation marks should be viewed as Sir Walter's, however the syntax of the passage, the use of 'he' in referring to himself show that he is not being quoted directly, rather through the reporting voice of Lady Russell. The use of syntax clouds who is actually reporting, but it is safe to assume that Lady Russell is the reporter as it is she who lacks success and has difficulties with Sir Walter. However, the report is satirical, it is a commentary upon Sir Walter's vanity and Lady Russell throughout Persuasion displays little or no satire in her speech, therefore there is arguably a subtle authorial voice penetrating the text. These instances invite the reader to share the author's point of view through her characters. To present this moral view point on characters, and to show character development over time, the novel needs the fixed point of reference; Jane Austen's authorial voice, and Persuasion's point of reference is Anne. By this Anne is very close to Jane Austen; Austen remains a detached observer of events, but her voice is clearly heard through Anne, who is in turn influenced by events in the narrative. Wayne Booth says in the essay 'Control of Distance in Jane Austen's Emma',
In Emma there are many breaks in the point of view because Emma's beclouded mind cannot do the whole job. In Persuasion, where the heroine's viewpoint is faulty only in her ignorance of Captain Wentworth's love, there are very few. Anne Elliot's consciousness is sufficient, as Emma's is not, for most of the needs of the novel which she dominates.
Where Anne's viewpoint is not sufficient Jane Austen takes over, but arguably Jane Austen has not succeeded in keeping viewpoints separate. She often uses Anne as a mouthpiece for her own views, blurring the distinction between the authorial voice and character's viewpoint, and making Anne a less well-defined character than her other heroines. The story is told largely as seen by Anne; her observations and reflections provide the serious elements of the novel, and Jane Austen prompts us to sympathise with Anne and accept her moral standpoint right from the start.
In Moll Flanders, Defoe utilises a first person narrative. We see the events of the narrative through the eyes of his protagonist Moll Flanders. Subsequently, the reader only sees what the narrator wants us to see. This point of view is arguably limited in its scope, as character development and plot development is entirely dependant upon the narrator and how much of their story they are willing to reveal. Moll Flanders controls the story and therefore controls the reader. As a result of this narrative form, the reader views Moll's life as a series of episiodes, episodes that excite and amuse Moll. This novel barely moves beyond the realm of the picaresque novel, Moll assuming the role of the 'loveable rogue', relating her journey into and out of trouble. This is not to criticise Defoe however, as the point of view benefits the story he is telling, the reader lives the life of Moll, there is sympathy for her and her plight and the reader wishes to learn more of Moll's life.
Jane Austen uses a different approach to narrative. Her use of free indirect discourse was not only revolutionary in terms of writing text, but also in informing the reader and how a reader would approach and dissect the meaning of a narrative. Austen is able to create a moral message in her texts without ever sermonising or taking on a didactic tone. Instead the reader enjoys a satirical ironic narrative through the eye's of it's protagonist Anne Elliot. Through Anne, we learn of Austen's dislike for vanity and certain elements of the society she lived in. Both novels deploy different forms of point of view and there is a strong sense in both to entertain, rather than to preach. Whilst entertaining however.......................
- Moll Flanders, Daniel Defoe, (Penguin Classics, London, 1989) Page no.?
- Moll Flanders, Daniel Defoe, (Penguin Classics, London, 1989) Page no.?
- Conscious Artistry in Moll Flanders, Robert R. Columbus., (Jstor). Page no.?
- Moll Flanders, Daniel Defoe, (Penguin Classics, London, 1989) Page no.?
- Walter Scott-
- Norman Page-
- Persuasion, Jane Austen, ed Gillian Beer (Penguin Classics, London,1998) pg xxiii
- Persuasion, Jane Austen, ed Gillian Beer (Penguin Classics, London,1998) pg xxiii
- Persuasion, Jane Austen, ed Gillian Beer (Penguin Classics, London,1998)pg
- 'Control of Distance in Jane Austen's Emma', Wayne Booth page no.?
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