Architecture is the art or practice of designing and building Structures. Not only was art and architecture different in the Middle Ages it had a different theme. The art that was present was not only used to be enjoyed like the art of today but it had a purpose, as did the gorgeous castles, cathedrals and other architecture of the medieval period. They had a way to glorify the life of the rich and ease the hard life of the poor. Art during these times was never just something to look at and enjoy, but something to be thankful for. .
During the Middle ages different artists ranged from potters to embroideries to simple painters. Not only was art used in the home such as pots and a jar, art was used as a learning tool. The illuminators literally "illuminated" the drab books written by scribes and brought a story to the illiterate. Armoires made protection from battle for knights and masons gave shelter to the rich. Cooks were even considered artists dabbling in the art of food preparation. John Cherry suggest in his book "Medieval Crafts: a Book of Days" that "art in the middle ages was not only looking upon as an occupation but as a way to make life a little easier". .
A prominent theme in not only medieval art but architecture as well, was Christ. With the expanding of Christianity artists often depicted Christ in many of their pictures as well as in vast cathedrals that were built across the land. Medieval art often had a morbid tone and faint detail so the scenes of Christ's death were greatly used as a main theme. .
In preparation for the building of the massive castles and cathedrals architects, known, as masons during the time, would create a picture, which would be the equivalent of today's blueprint. Often they also made models of the desired building. During this time the masons became bolder with their building and began to expand the techniques of their modern architecture. Often tillers and glaziers were called in to give a more artistes view to the aspect of =cathedral building.