The Saxon Or Anglo-Saxon Style, which prevailed from the mission of Augustine, at the close of the sixth, to the middle of the eleventh century.
The Norman style, which may be said to have prevailed generally from the middle of the eleventh to the latter part of the twelfth century.
The Semi-Norman, Or Transition style, which appears to have prevailed during the latter part of the twelfth century.
The Early English, or general style of the thirteenth century.
The Decorated English, or general style of the fourteenth century.
The Florid Or Perpendicular English, the style of the fifteenth, and early part of the sixteenth century.
The Debased English, or general style of the latter part of the sixteenth and early part of the seventeenth century, towards the middle of which Gothic architecture, even in its debased state, became entirely discarded.
Q. What constitutes the difference of these styles?
A. They may be distinguished partly by the form of the arches, which are triangular-headed, semicircular or segmental, simple pointed, and complex pointed; though such forms are by no means an invariable criterion of any particular style; by the size and shape of the windows, and the manner in which they are subdivided or not by transoms, mullions, and tracery; but more especially by certain minute details, ornamental accessories and mouldings, more or less peculiar to particular styles, and which are seldom to be met with in any other.
Q. Are the majority of our ecclesiastical buildings composed only of one style?