Chartres Cathedral - Hb English

Some books are like keys that unlock a depth of understanding of something. Miller's treatment of the stained glass at Chartres is that kind of thing, both here in this book and in his guided tours which he's been giving for some 50(!) years.

This book excellent photos of all the windows and explains in detail what they mean. I can't emphasize enough how important this is. Before I read that book I'd look at medieval stained glass and think "oooh, pretty". Now I look and think "oh, that's a Jesse Tree, and over here is a very interesting depiction of the life of Saint Eustace see the stag there. And look, it's an oven in the corner of that window, perhaps the local baker's guild helped fund it". It's amazing how much more rewarding a visit is if you understand the meaning of things.

I particularly recommend this book for anyone planning a visit to Chartres. Read it before you go so you understand what you're seeing.