An adjective derived from the Goths, the barbarians who sacked Rome in 410. How "GOTHIC" came to be applied to the architecture of the 12th through 16th centuries in Europe is conjectural.
The Goths were a cruel and primitive people; the Gothic cathedrals are among the nobelest works of man. Perhaps a new style always seems barbaric to the defenders of tradition.
"Gothic" in modern use refers to tales, situations, places characterised by intrigue, moody persons, violent passions and supernatural elements
For more on Gothic:
Gothic Romance