The Use of Castles during the Norman Conquest

Structure e/clips/the-normans-motte-and- bailey-castles/10762.html

Structure

 Were built of wood  A motte was a hill of earth  Below the Motte was the bailey.  It was surrounded by a wooden fence  A moat was also dug out around the bailey to provide further protection Structure

 At the heart of William’s defensive strategy  Changed the Geopolitical Landscape  Secured areas using them  Were intimidating to the English  Provided troops with strong defences Why were they built?

 Most southern castles are Motte and Bailey  The ones to the South East were to protect against rebellions there  There were few castles in the North since Harrying removed opposition  Many on the Welsh border to protect against frequent raids  Not many in the South West Where were they built?

 The moat  Allowed defenders to regroup  Can hold out because they had stores of food  Deterrent Strategies – Defending the Castle

 Negotiate outer ditch  Storm gate  Get round defensive systems  Climb up Motte  Fire projectiles Strategies – Attacking the Castle