(Here and in the following sections, difficult words and phrases, as well as allusions and historical references, are explained.)
frieze a sculptured or richly ornamented band on a building in classical architecture that is horizontal and rests on a column.
cornice a molded and projecting horizontal component at the top of a building.
volute a spiral, scroll-shaped ornament in Ionic and Corinthian architecture.
pediment a triangular space forming the gable of a low-pitched roof in Classical architecture.
pilaster an upright architectural member that is rectangular in shape and, though functionally a pier, serves primarily as a decoration.
facade the front of a building.
flying buttress a projecting structure arched over at the top to engage with a main wall. An important feature of Gothic architecture, lending strength to the main structure.
The Three Orders the schools of design in classical Greek architecture. These are the Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian. The Doric was the most basic and least ornate, and was used by the Spartans. The Ionic consisted of higher and slenderer columns. The Corinthian was more ornate, more detail-oriented, and not as widely used as the other two.
Gothic a style of architecture dominant in western Europe from the mid-twelfth century to the early-sixteenth century.
