Final answer:
The main formal characteristic of a Western European monastery is a centralized floor plan, which enhances communal living. Monasteries were designed in such a way that the architecture supported the programmatic requirements of the religious community.
Step-by-step explanation:
The main formal characteristic of a Western European monastery is a centralized floor plan, which enhances communal living. Monasteries were designed in such a way that the architecture supported the programmatic requirements of the religious community.
The centralized floor plan allowed for a sense of unity and community among the monks, as all areas of the monastery were easily accessible and connected. It provided a space for communal living, where the monks could gather for prayer, study, and other activities.
Additionally, the centralized floor plan facilitated the organization and management of the monastery. The different sections of the building, such as the chapel, refectory, library, and dormitories, were arranged in a way that supported the daily routines and activities of the monks.