| The Gothic Revival is a rich and significant aspect of the architectural history of modern England. Long considered an aesthetic with distinctly different eighteenth and nineteenth century components, Strawberry Hill, the private residence of Horace Walpole, has traditionally been interpreted by contemporary architectural historians as an excellent example of the earlier revival. Twentieth century analyses of Strawberry Hill have focused almost exclusively on the eighteenth century structure either in and of itself or in the context of its peers. No study of Strawberry Hill has fully addressed the appearance or structure of the property as it existed prior to Walpole's tenure. Likewise, no study has analyzed Walpole's creation within the context of Victorian Gothic Revival stricture. This thesis attempts to do both, and to access the implications of the latter as it has affected twentieth century opinion on the subject.;The methodology and design of this research project have focused on primary sources. By chronologically following Walpole's Strawberry Hill account book and his correspondences, a clear picture emerges of Walpole's aspirations, accomplishments and intellectual evolution. Likewise, a close reading of the architectural treatises of members of the Ecclesiological Society is equally revealing of the most significant group within the Victorian Gothic Revival. In comparing Walpole and the Ecclesiologists within the larger framework of twentieth century interpretation, a different narrative for the Gothic Revival appears.;Where traditional interpretations of Strawberry Hill have largely dismissed the building as an excellent example of eighteenth century Gothic, this thesis ultimately places Strawberry Hill squarely with the tradition of historically grounded Victorian architecture. Where the Gothic Revival has typically been considered according to two eras of design, this thesis finds a substantive rather than chronological division between the two. Finally, in assessing the literature of the nineteenth century Gothic Revival, the Ecclesiological Society ultimately appears to bear significant responsibility in shaping contemporary opinion of the movement. |
