| Abstract: |
Analyses the building activities of the Durham monks in the two centuries before the Dissolution, using the evidence of the surviving remains, early depictions of works since destroyed, and the extensive contemporary archives. Besides the cathedral-priory itself, the buildings of the monastery's six northern cells (Coldingham, Holy Island, Farne Island, Finchale, Jarrow, and Monkwearmouth), and those of the thirty surviving appropriated churches north of the Humber are also considered. Particular attention is paid to the years c. 1350--75, a major period of building probably undertaken under the supervision of master mason, John Lewyn. The priory's treatment of its appropriated churches, and its interaction with parishioners in maintaining and altering these, is also evaluated. The pattern of building activity is related to the priory's economic resources and the role of episcopal or secular patrons in the appointment of masons is contrasted with that of the monks. |
