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Medieval Castle Essay

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The Medieval Period lasted from the 10th century to the 17th century; this was the time of castles. The word castle is derived from the Latin word castellum which means fort. Castles still stand today as one of the most magnificent structures ever built. Not only are people fascinated with their grand splendor, but with their luminous presence of authority. Castles were not built for defense alone; they were symbols of social status, wealth, power, and intimidation. Kings and queens were not the only people to inhabit castles; noblemen could also construct their own castles. Castles were the main form of protection for most people living during the Medieval Period. The main purpose of the castle was for the defense of the …show more content…

The keep would also house the great hall where the meals would be served. The lord and lady of the castle would sit at a great table near the end of the hall opposite of any doors to avoid drafts. Men at arms, guests and other inhabitants would eat on tables that could be removed after the meal. Meals were very lengthy and consisted of three courses. Apart from bed chambers and the great hall, the keep contained a chapel and a guard room. In some castles these chapels were only used by the lord and his family. "Decoration and furniture in castle chapels were just as ornate as any other chapel that was built separate from the castle." (Hull 2) The guard room is usually located on one of the lower levels of the keep. Knights and their squires would occupy this room along with the garrison of the castle. Noblemen who lived in the castle required servants, chamberlains, chaplains, and cooks to assist them in their daily life. The servants would perform tasks such as cleaning, washing and serving the meals. The chamberlains would control the events of the great hall while a chaplain would carry out his duties in the chapel, and the cooks would prepare the meals. The lady of the castle would oversee the lessons of the children and the household work. Entertainment played a major role in medieval life; castle lords would host tournaments and games. "We can only imagine that, though the people worked hard during the Middle Ages, they also compensated by

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