Final answer:
Gothic cathedrals are characterized by large walls of windows, pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and flying buttresses. These architectural features allowed for grand, monumental structures that glorify God, inspire worshipers, and communicate religious ideas and stories.
Step-by-step explanation:
Characteristics of Cathedrals and Christian Architecture:
Gothic cathedrals are characterized by large walls of windows, pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and flying buttresses. These architectural features allowed for soaring heights, the creation of light-filled interiors, and larger spaces for windows. The incorporation of these features was driven by a desire to create grand, monumental structures that glorify God, inspire worshipers, and communicate religious ideas and stories. The use of pointed arches and ribbed vaults transferred forces to columns instead of the walls, resulting in thinner walls with larger windows. Flying buttresses provided external support, allowing for the construction of taller and more elaborate structures.