Meaning: Ralph Cram, an American architect and writer, made this statement in his book "The Gothic Quest: A History of the Gothic Movement" published in 1928. The quote reflects the prevailing sentiment at the time, capturing the belief in the inevitable progress and development of society and culture as the world entered a new decade in the early 1900s.

At the turn of the 20th century, the world was experiencing significant advancements in technology, industry, and the arts. The first decade had witnessed the rise of modernism in various fields, including architecture, literature, and visual arts. These developments were often seen as evidence of the natural progression of human civilization, with the assumption that each era would surpass the previous one in terms of innovation and achievement.

The quote by Ralph Cram captures the optimism and confidence of the era, as people looked forward to what they believed would be the culmination of a linear and upward trajectory of human achievement. The "last act" referred to in the quote suggests a sense of finality, as if the world had reached a pinnacle of progress and was poised for a grand finale in the unfolding narrative of human history.

However, the historical context in which Cram made this statement is crucial to understanding its significance. The early 20th century was a time of great social, political, and cultural upheaval. The optimism of the previous decades was soon overshadowed by the outbreak of World War I, which shattered the belief in the inevitability of progress and exposed the fragility of civilization.

Moreover, the quote reflects a particular worldview prevalent among certain segments of society at the time. It embodies a sense of Eurocentrism and a belief in the superiority of Western civilization, which was being increasingly challenged by the growing awareness of non-Western cultures and the impacts of colonialism and imperialism.

In the realm of architecture, Ralph Cram was known for his advocacy of the Gothic Revival style, which sought to revive the architectural forms of the medieval period. His comment can be seen in the context of a broader debate within the architectural community about the direction of architectural design and the role of tradition versus modern innovation.

In conclusion, Ralph Cram's quote captures the spirit of optimism and confidence that characterized the beginning of the 20th century, while also reflecting the limitations of that perspective in light of the tumultuous events that followed. It serves as a reminder of the complexities of historical narratives and the need to critically examine the assumptions and beliefs that underpin them.