Castles: Britain's Fortified History Season 1 Episode 1 Instruments of Invasion

Instruments of Invasion, the first episode of Castles: Britain's Fortified History season 1, takes viewers on a journey through the history of British castles and the ways in which they were built and fortified to withstand invasion.

Hosted by historian and author Sam Willis, the episode begins with an exploration of the early castles of Britain, including motte-and-bailey castles, which were built by the Normans after their conquest of England in 1066. Willis explains how these castles were designed to intimidate and oppress the native population, and how they were the key to the Norman conquest of England.

From there, the episode moves on to the 12th century, when the first stone castles began to appear in Britain. Willis examines the innovations that made these castles more secure and harder to defeat, including concentric castles and the introduction of arrow slits and other defensive measures.

As the episode progresses, Willis delves deeper into the various types of castles that were built in Britain over the centuries, including the majestic castles of Edward I, which were built to secure his conquest of Wales in the late 13th century. He also discusses the development of siege warfare, and how castles evolved to withstand increasingly sophisticated attacks from invaders.

Throughout the episode, Willis is joined by expert guests who provide additional insights and historical context. Archivist Dr. Sean Cunningham, for example, guides Willis through the archives of the Tower of London, showing him the written records that detail the castle's early history.

The episode concludes with a look at how castles evolved in the modern era, and how many of them were repurposed as homes or tourist attractions. Willis also discusses the ongoing debate about whether castles were necessary for the defense of Britain, or whether they were merely symbols of oppression and power.

Overall, Instruments of Invasion is a fascinating introduction to the history of British castles, examining their place in the country's military and cultural heritage. Willis is an engaging guide, and the show's blend of historical reenactments, expert commentary, and breathtaking aerial footage make for an entertaining and informative viewing experience.