Norman changes to the English landscape
I can explain how historians use material remains to understand the use of castles in Norman England.
Norman changes to the English landscape
I can explain how historians use material remains to understand the use of castles in Norman England.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- The Normans faced many rebellions during William the Conqueror's reign.
- The Normans built motte-and-bailey castles to deter these rebellions.
- The Normans introduced new stone buildings to many towns.
- Historians use the material remains of castles to study the Norman period.
Keywords
Siege - the act of surrounding a town and refusing to let people out or goods in
Motte-and-bailey castle - a type of fortification introduced to England by the Normans
Common misconception
The written word is the only useful source for the study of the past.
Although written sources are useful, material remains can reveal much about past societies - it depends on the questions historians ask of the source.
Content guidance
- Depiction or discussion of sensitive content
- Depiction or discussion of violence or suffering
Supervision
Adult supervision recommended
Licence
This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2024), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).
Lesson video
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Starter quiz
6 Questions
local, untrained Anglo-Saxons who were called up to fight
the defensive line of shields used by Anglo-Saxon armies
foot soldiers
soldiers on horseback
Exit quiz
6 Questions
a ditch, sometimes filled with water, surrounding the castle
the castle courtyard; an open area inside the outer defences
a tall structure within a castle used for keeping a lookout
a mound of earth
