Early Medieval Fortifications in the "West" of France: A Revised Technical Vocabulary
Bernard S. Bachrach
During the past twenty-five years scholars have become increasingly aware of inadequacy technical vocabulary available for describing medieval fortifications. For example, French word chateau is currently used to denote numerous structures varying from fortified private dwellings grandiose 16th-century country houses massive castles like Crac des Chevaliers. By contrast, English castle evokes an image vast military complexes built by Edward I in Wales, and it only with great difficulty that imagination can be stretched envision blockhouses towers sur-
Technology and Culture