Two of the most distinctive qualities of Gothic cathedrals were a decorative element and the architectural feature that supported it. What was this decorative element and the architectural feature that supported it?
Explanation
Answer: E - Gothic cathedrals were noted for their massive stained glass windows and the flying buttresses on the exterior of the building that made large windows possible. Such tall, heavy glass could not be supported by the walls alone, so the flying buttresses provided reinforcement. The exterior side of a cathedral wall, where a row of flying buttresses support it, looks comparable to the side of ribcage. Not only did the architectural feature allow for greater decoration in the structures, they allowed more light to flood the buildings. (Intricate carvings on the facade were characteristic of the Gothic style, but the exteriors of most Gothic buildings were straight, not tiered, to emphasize their height. There was a round ornamental window at one end of many Gothic churches, but the buildings had long, straight floor plans, not rounded plans. The ceilings were high and supported by ribbed vaults, not low. Also, the high spires were supported by pointed arches.)
