How did medieval architects use sculpture to tell stories?

Medieval architects used sculpture to tell stories in several ways. Firstly, they used the architectural setting to create a frameset from which they could tell a story. For instance, medieval architects used sculptures on the doors of the churches to narrate biblical stories. These sculptures were artfully arranged to depict characters in the story, and the viewer could see the sequence of events unfold. One end of the doorway could show the beginning of the story, and the other end would show the conclusion.

Medieval architects also used the facades of the churches to depict different scenes, such as the Last Judgment or the life of a saint. The sculptures on the facade were arranged in a continuous narrative flow to tell the story from start to finish. The viewer could look at the different statues and see the different events that took place in the story.

Additionally, medieval architects used various sculptures, such as gargoyles, to illustrate moral lessons or spiritual truths. These sculptures were fantastic creatures, such as demons or mythical animals, that symbolized the different vices or virtues of human nature. The viewer would see the sculptures and understand the message behind them.

Overall, medieval architects used sculptures in different ways to convey religious narratives or moral lessons. Their use of art and architecture helped to communicate complex ideas to the viewer in a visual and memorable way.

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