Three English Cathedrals: Norwich, Lincoln, Wells

The delightful commentator (you soon forget about his lockjawed diction) Edward Markee, a Norwich native and lifelong architectural buff, introduces us to three cathedrals which reflect changes in style over a period of 400 years and which create an understanding of how a medieval cathedral was used. We begin with a discussion of the Anglo-Norman Norwich Cathedral, begun in 1096. Using wonderful, clear, hand-drawn diagrams, Markee illustrates the basic outline, the sequence of construction and tells us how and why Norwich came to be built. We become his companions as we visit the cathedral itself, study the many details inside the structure, and visit the grounds and surrounding buildings, which formed the entire complex. We next visit Lincoln, begun in 1192, remarkable for the unity of its Gothic design, and conclude with Wells which illustrates a new type of space for public worship. In visiting the three sites, we observe similarities and differences and see how architects could create different designs within the same style. We learn how these cathedrals were used and how the various buildings served the needs of both worshipers and the clergy. Throughout the commentary, Markee's love of his subject shines through and is contagious. Engrossing and magnificently photographed, this is highly recommended, despite the price. Editor's Choice. (J. Reed)