Names and terms of a medieval CASTLE's parts

Summary

In this informative video, Shad explores the terminology and components of castles, providing a detailed overview of their parts and functions. From the main defensive building known as the keep to the outer walls and the bailey, Shad clarifies common misconceptions about what constitutes a castle. He delves into defensive features like moats, drawbridges, and gatehouses, and explains the purpose of battlements, hoardings, and murder holes. The video promises future content on castle design and the internal layout, showcasing Shad's passion for medieval architecture.

Takeaways

• 🏰 The script introduces a detailed exploration of castle components and terminology, presented by Shad, who has a passion for castles.
• 🎁 Shad presents a 3D model named 'Honor Guard' as a visual aid for the video, which is a work in progress but sufficiently complete for educational purposes.
• 🕰 The definition of a castle is discussed, emphasizing that it is a fortified medieval structure of a certain size with specific defensive features.
• 🛡️ The script clarifies the distinction between a 'keep' and a 'castle', explaining that a keep is essentially a castle without an enclosing wall.
• 🕋 The 'Bailey' or 'Ward' is identified as the open walking area within the castle walls, which can have multiple sections if there are internal walls.
• 🏹 The strategic advantages of building castles on hills are highlighted, with moats serving as the second-best defensive option for flat ground.
• 🚶‍♂️ The importance of the castle's entrance and its defenses, including the drawbridge and portcullis, is underscored to prevent unauthorized access.
• 🏰 The 'Gatehouse' and 'Barbican' are explained as fortified entry points, with the Barbican being the most fortified and outermost gatehouse.
• 💂‍♂️ The 'Battlements' are described as the iconic defensive features of a castle, including the walls, towers, ramparts, and crenellations.
• 🔍 The function of 'Arrow Loops' or 'Slits' is detailed as small openings in the merlons for archers to shoot arrows at attackers with full protection.
• 🕳️ 'Murder Holes' are revealed as openings in ceilings or walls to drop or shoot projectiles onto enemies from above, distinct from machicolations.

Q & A

What is the main focus of the video by Shad?

The main focus of the video is to educate viewers on the names and terminology of the components and parts of castles.

What is the term used to describe the main habitable place within a castle's walls?

The main habitable place within a castle's walls is referred to as the 'keep' when it is separate from the walls.

What is the common term used to describe the open area inside the castle walls?

The common term used to describe the open area inside the castle walls is 'Bailey', although 'Ward' is also used.

Why are castles often built on hills?

Castles are often built on hills to provide a defensive advantage and a greater field of view to spot potential attackers.

What is a moat and how does it contribute to a castle's defense?

A moat is a deep, broad ditch dug around a castle, which can be dry or filled with water. It contributes to the castle's defense by making it more difficult for attackers to approach and restricts the movement of siege equipment.

What is the purpose of a drawbridge in a castle?

The purpose of a drawbridge is to serve as a bridge that can be raised and lowered in front of the castle's entrance, providing control over access to the castle.

What is the difference between a windlass drawbridge and a counterweight drawbridge?

A windlass drawbridge is raised by turning a winch, while a counterweight drawbridge uses a counterbalance system with beams and weights to make raising and lowering the bridge easier and quicker.

What is the term used to describe the walkable areas of castle walls?

The walkable areas of castle walls are referred to as the 'rampart' or 'ramparts'.

What are the two components that make up the crenellations on a castle wall?

The two components that make up the crenellations are the 'Merlin', which provides full cover, and the 'Crenel', which is the lower part in between the Merlins.

What is the purpose of a 'murder hole' in a castle?

A 'murder hole' is an opening in the ceiling above an area designed to trap an enemy, allowing defenders to rain down projectiles or other harmful substances onto the attackers.

What is the term 'donjon' and how does it relate to castle design?

The term 'donjon' originally referred to the highest usable room in a castle tower, often associated with prestige. Over time, the term became associated with the place where captives were held, leading to the modern term 'dungeon'.

What is the purpose of a postern in a castle?

A postern serves as a back door or a secondary entry and escape point in a castle, designed to be small and easily defensible.

What is the significance of the 3D model 'Honor Guard' in the video?

The 3D model 'Honor Guard' is a passion project of Shad and serves as a visual aid in the video to demonstrate the specifics of each castle component.