Castles

Castles Seen By The Light Of A Thousand Candles By Katie Burke "Feudal society was defined by the castle, and was reflected in its development from a wooden defense structure to a stone architectural complex, with room for many houses within its walls." Castles emerged as part of Europe's feudalisation, perhaps as early as the 9th century. Frequently situated at key locations, castles were strongholds that provided bases from which squadrons of knights could ride …

…flying from every pinnical. Romanticized history has done a disservice to the castle, making it seem to be something it is not. However, even a study of the most utilitarian castle cannot banish a little pang of longing- the wish to emproider at a window in the solar while overlooking the rolling fields, the desire to rub elows amongst one's friends while dining to the music of minstrels and the light of a thousand candles.