10 Great Cathedrals of England (Mon)

About this course

The course uses ten cathedral case studies to examine how buildings developed, from their foundations and architectural forms to the artworks that shaped their identities. It also considers saints, cults, legends and miracles connected with these sites, alongside the role of pilgrimage and belief in cathedral life. The historical scope extends from medieval buildings to Restoration, Victorian and modern examples. Architecture, art and religious culture are considered together, with the selected cathedrals including Norwich, St Albans, Hereford, Lichfield, Winchester, Poitiers, Exeter, St Paul's, Truro and Liverpool.

What you'll learn

• Identify key architectural developments across a range of English cathedrals.
• Examine how artworks contribute to the character and meaning of cathedral buildings.
• Explore the influence of saints, cults, legends and pilgrimage on cathedral histories.
• Relate cathedral architecture to changing religious, artistic and cultural contexts.
• Compare medieval, Restoration, Victorian and modern approaches to cathedral building.

Is this course right for you?

The course is intended for learners at all levels and provides an introductory exploration of cathedral architecture, art and religious history. It brings together building history, visual culture and the stories of associated saints, without stating any requirement for previous study.