History GCSE
Motte and bailey castle
What Motte and bailey castle means in History GCSE, as defined for Pearson Edexcel.
Definition of Motte and bailey castle
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain Motte and bailey castle in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: Pearson Edexcel
A castle built quickly from earth and timber, with a raised earth mound, a wooden tower, an enclosed courtyard and a wooden fence.
Topics that use Motte and bailey castle
- Option B1: Key topic 2: William I in power: securing the kingdom, 1066–87 - 1 Establishing control (Pearson Edexcel GCSE)
Related terms
- Intimidation
- Marcher earldoms
- Patronage and reward
- Royal authority and control
- Strategic warfare
- Submission and fealty
- Bailey
- Establishing control
Using Motte and bailey castle in the exam
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