The origin of the gothic in the ideas of Erwin Panofsky

Abstract

The present essay aims to determine the ideas which have influenced the abbot Suger in the reformation of the church of Saint-Denis – origin of gothic. Erwin Panofsky provides the essential traces of this investigation and opens new deepening possibilities. In his fascinating study, Panofsky had the merit of having been pioneer in discovering an influence of Pseudo-Dionisio’s works on the reform of Saint-Dennis. Since then, the controversy has not ceased. One outstands the role played by Hugo de S. Victor as transmitter of the mystic influence over Suger.