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Castles
Development
These timber castles had the considerable disadvantage of being vulnerable
to fire. Once William had become established in England, the Normans
were able to re-build many of the timber castles with stone. This was
subject to the availability of stone and there being suitable ground
at the site to take the weight of a stone castle. If the old motte had
been built on firm natural ground or rock rather than a manmade mound,
then there was a possibility of rebuilding in a similar style. However
in most cases the new stone castles were built on comparatively level
ground, although the strength of the stone walls more than compensated
for the reduced height advantage of the tower.
Twenty years after the Norman Invasion William was killed in a riding
accident, but the castle building continued in England. The styles varied
slightly according to terrain and stability of the ground, but toward
the end of the eleventh century the square stone tower had been developed,
of which Colchester Castle is a fine example.
Castle building progressed through the twelfth century with the construction
becoming stronger and more substantial. Additionally, other features
evolved such as the introduction of towers projecting from the outside
of the perimeter wall. These gave the defenders a better view and field
of attack. The towers and walls were constructed curved or circular
on plan to give better strength and view to a head on assault; plus
it removed the corners which were the most vulnerable to attack.
Next
Castles were a principal feature of medieval warfare and society,
as well as featuring in many historical legends and myths which emanated
from England and Europe generally. Take a look at this section to learn
the outline of how and why the idea of the castle originated and evolved.
