Society in the middle ages was constructed around a basic model known as feudalism. Land was the primary source of wealth and all land belonged to the crown. However the king gave some of his land to his nobles in return for military service. These nobles of the realm also gave land to those further down the feudal order. As such feudal society can be seen as a pyramid type structure with the king at the top.
Symbols of Royal Power
Castles stood as symbols of royal power, albeit a power that was indirectly discharged through a local lord. In an age where communication was slow and unreliable castles served as a visual reminder to society of the rights of kingship, of loyalty to ones lord and of the natural order of things. Castles had an imposing presence on the landscape. They were also built in places that would offer the best natural defence. Such displays of architectural wealth could only be matched by the other great land holders of the period, the church.
Conquest and Consolidation
Castles came in very different forms as there were built for many different functions. From our modern perspective we see the castle as a defensive fort, a means of protecting the realm from invaders or rebels. This was the case particularly on the Scottish and Welsh boarders. But a castle might also serve to impose royal will on conquered lands and peoples; to subjugate where possible or to repel. Whilst also being the home of the local lord the castle could also serve as a base from which his knights could control the surrounding countryside or a place of refuge for his subjects in times of trouble.
Governing the Kingdom
During times of stability the castle represented a focal point of a different nature. Royal protection encouraged villages and towns to spring up close to castles. This encouraged farmers from the surrounding countryside to sell their crops at market. Different tradesmen found an outlet for their skills and wares. The castle served as a focal point for the local economy. Markets and fairs could be held in safety. Jewish money lenders plied their trade. Castles served as administrative centres for the crown. Tax could be collected and coins minted. Prisoners could be held in the castle dungeons and justice administered through courts.
Castles represented more than the authority of royal power. They functioned on many different socio- economic and military levels and provided a focal point for a complex feudal structure in an uncertain age.
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