Castles in Norman Control: Cause and Consequence

History
Year 9 / GCSE / Grade 8
8 questions
~16 mins
1 views0 downloads

About This Worksheet

This worksheet explores the causes behind the construction of Motte & Bailey castles by the Normans and their consequences for Norman control in England. It encourages students to analyze the reasons for castle building and the impact on Norman dominance.

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Castles in Norman Control: Cause and Consequence

Subject: HistoryGrade: Year 9 / GCSE / Grade 8
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Untitled Worksheet

Grade Year 9 / GCSE / Grade 8
A

Introduction to Norman Castles

Source A: Excerpt from a Norman historian 'The Normans built castles quickly after the conquest to secure their control over England. These castles served both as military fortresses and symbols of Norman power.' Provenance: Written by William of Poitiers, a Norman historian, around 1070.

1.
Explain why the Normans built Motte & Bailey castles after the conquest. (4 marks)
[4 marks]
2.
Compare the purposes of Motte & Bailey castles with earlier Anglo-Saxon fortifications. (6 marks)
[6 marks]
B

Causes of Castle Construction

Source B: A modern historian’s view 'The rapid construction of castles by the Normans was driven by the need to secure their new territory and prevent revolts. Building castles also helped establish Norman authority over the English population.' Provenance: Modern historical analysis by Dr. Jane Smith, published 2005.

1.
Outline two main reasons why the Normans built castles in England. (4 marks)
[4 marks]
2.
Analyse how the construction of castles affected Norman control in England. (6 marks)
[6 marks]
C

Consequences of Castle Building

Source C: A Norman noble’s perspective 'The castles struck fear into the hearts of the English, and over time, they helped the Normans govern more effectively, but also caused resentment among the native population.' Provenance: A speech by a Norman noble, 1080.

1.
Explain the immediate and long-term consequences of building Motte & Bailey castles. (4 marks)
[4 marks]
2.
Compare the views of the Norman noble and the modern historian on the impact of castles. (6 marks)
[6 marks]
D

Evaluation of Castle Impact

Source D: A contemporary English rebel’s view 'The castles were symbols of oppression and caused widespread resentment among the English people.' Provenance: Rebellion leader’s speech, 1075.

1.
Evaluate the extent to which castles contributed to unrest among the English population. (6 marks)
[6 marks]
2.
Summarise the main reasons why the Normans built castles and the effects they had on England. (8 marks)
[8 marks]

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Details

Created
1/1/2026
Updated
1/1/2026
Type
worksheet