Medieval Castle Research Paper

A tree is a symbol of life; the heart, a symbol of love; the castle, a symbol of power. Castles are often thought of as homes for the royalty. However, they held a much greater purpose. They were initially designed to be used for defense and safety, but their role has changed massively over the years. Medieval castles were not just large stone structures to look at; they protected people from danger, served as a home for the wealthy, and had a huge impact on life during the Middle Ages.

“Medieval castle, a vast, complex stone-built structure with walls several feet thick, and a drawbridge spanning a deep moat” (Ralph, 3). Originally, medieval castles were not all that advanced. “Earliest castles were made by Normans in the 11th century...often

According to Brenda Ralph, “The earliest defenses comprised huge earthworks, timber-built, or motte and bailey castles” (Ralph, 2). One of the main roles castles played in medieval society was being used in case of attacks. “Castles were primarily used for defense”(IAC Publishing, Web). They were carefully designed to make it as difficult as possible for enemies to enter and attack. Men who provided military support could also be found inside or around the castle.“The main gate of a castle was often the most dangerous place in the castle because it was also a deadly trap” (Kalif Publishing, Web). The gate had the ability to close on both sides during time of attack. It would then trap the predators inside, and the small holes allowed arrows to be fired at them. Occasionally, if the attackers happened to break through the main gate trap, they would become stuck in the castle's courtyard. Defenders could fire arrows at them if they became trapped in there as well. “Stairwells were smartly designed to make it difficult for attackers to swing their swords” (Kalif Publishing, Web). Most of the stairwells inside medieval castles were skinny and narrow. This made it hard for there to be fights since there was not a lot of open space. There were also all kinds of unknown places inside. According to Kalif Publishing, “Secret passages led to secret chambers where people could hide...and supplies could be kept”(Kalif Publishing, Web). During time of attack, medieval castles were the places to