Cathedrals The term itself, "Gothic," derives from a term given to the style by Renaissance scholar, Giorgi Vasari, who incorrectly attributed the form to the Goths, Germanic invaders who helped lead to the downfall of the Holy Roman Empire and its classic ideals. In it's own time; Gothic architecture was referred to as "modern" or "French" architecture. The basic concepts and standards of Gothic form are colored, darkened and diffused light. A vertical rush to the sky, a synthesis of naturalistic and rational forms with mysticism and faith, the Cult of the Virgin, flying buttresses and other architectural advances that allowed a heightened sense of airiness and space. The Gothi