Reply To: Stained Glass

[Tamara Toy]

The stained glass windows changed a lot about churches at this time. Not only did it alleviate the need for so many candles and lamps, but it also created a sense of awe for those entering the church. As well, an abundance of light was akin to a divine presence, so letting in the light also could mean letting in the Divine. Also, as architecture had evolved to be able to build these massive buildings, the heavy use of stained glass helped to highlight the size of these churches, to further the sense of awe in ‘God’s work.’ (As it is a common belief that all great things are God’s work.) The size of these buildings may have also had the effect of making attendees feel small in the grand scheme of things, in comparison to such massive and untouchable things as the Church and God.