EXPLORING LIFE AND DEATH IN MEDIEVAL TIMES Medieval People – Those Who Fought
The Lord and Lady of the Castle The lord of the castle
2Understand what life was like for lords and ladies in medieval times
The king divided up his land amongst the main lords. Each of those lords built castles and ruled their area.
The lord organised the business of the castle, kept his territory under control and carried out the wishes of the king. He had to fight for the king and help him rule the country. He had to go to the king’s court when called. Since he was lord of his own area, he had to hold court and settle disputes. The lord passed on his land to his eldest son when he died.
The lady of the castle Noblewomen were married off by their parents. Marriage was not a love match. Instead it forged links between important families. The bride’s father provided gifts to take to her new family. This was her dowry. Once she was married, she became the lady of the castle and had to ensure the daily running of the castle went smoothly. She was in charge of the stores, the baking, the brewing and the cellar. She gave directions to the servants, including the pages who came to the castle about seven years old. She spun flax and wool for thread with other ladies. She was also responsible for her daughters’ education.
Building castles Some of the first castles were built as motte and bailey castles. Later castles were built of stone and were much larger.
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Keep Motte Moat
Bailey
Motte and bailey castle A motte and bailey castle being attacked from the Bayeux Tapestry
