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Norman castles flashcards with Tower of London, motte-and-bailey design, and medieval England history.
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Norman Castles in Medieval England Flashcards

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This 10-card set covers Norman castles built in England and Wales following William the Conqueror's 1066 invasion. Questions address castle design (motte-and-baileys, ditches, palisades), major examples like the Tower of London, and whether castles served military or status purposes. Suitable for high school history students reviewing Norman conquest, medieval architecture, or English social control strategies.

Subject:
Social Studies
Topic:
History
Grade Level:
10th – 11th Grades
Updated April 2025

Terms in This Set

  • What was the purpose of Norman castles? (Military Fortresses or Status symbols?) What were burghs and burh-geats?
  • The Tower of London.
  • What was the purpose of Norman castles? (Military Fortresses or Status symbols?) The majority of castles built by the Normans after the conquest were of what type?
  • Ditches, earth banks with palisades (wooden fences) on top, gatehouses to control the entrance (and show status)
  • What was the purpose of Norman castles? (Military Fortresses or Status symbols?) Many Norman castles were built near places that rebelled against William. Give two examples.
  • A man-made hill – a watchtower was built on top.
  • What was the purpose of Norman castles? (Military Fortresses or Status symbols?) How many castles were built during and after the period of the rebellions (1066-71)?
  • Robert of Mortain (William’s half brother)William FitzOsbern (William’s cousin and trusted follower)
  • What was the purpose of Norman castles? (Military Fortresses or Status symbols?) At Hen Domen, the site of a Norman castle on the Welsh border archaeological digs have revealed no jewellery or valuables. What does this suggest?
  • In the countryside – suggests they were about status not defence as they were built away from anywhere of strategic importance. E.g. Castle Acre – built a deer park and diverted a Roman road so that it went past and gave a good view of the castle.

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