Final answer:
The ornate sculpture facade of Notre-Dame-la-Grande shows the importance of having sculptural decoration visible to the public, serving an educational and communicative role especially in times of widespread illiteracy.
Step-by-step explanation:
The ornate sculpture facade of Notre-Dame-la-Grande demonstrates the importance of having sculptural decoration visible to the public. Gothic churches often featured elaborate sculptures to educate both the literate and the illiterate about religious narratives and values. These sculptures, initially adorned with bright paint and gold gilding, served as a form of communication, with small statues depicting religious figures and stories that were inherently didactic. Additionally, larger sculptures and carvings, which could be incredibly ornate, often served not just decorative but functional purposes, such as the gargoyles that were designed as waterspouts and symbolically guarded the buildings.
During eras of widespread illiteracy, these sculptures were especially significant because they provided an accessible way for the general population to learn about religious teachings and moral guidance. The continual presence and restoration of these sculptures throughout history, even after episodes of intentional destruction and neglect, underscore their cultural and religious importance within society.