How important is Dover Castle's location? Also take into account its many geographical and geopolitical factors.

Authors Avatar by reecebucklehotmailcouk (student)

Reece Buckle

The site of which Dover Castle is built upon, may have been founded and slightly fortified in the Iron ages, even before the Romans first invaded Britain in AD43. However it wasn't until Henry II, in the 12th century first took an interest to Dover Castle's geographical location, that it could be recognised as a potential frontier Castle.

Dover Castle is often described as the 'key to England', which in my opinion highlights Dover’s strategic geopolitical importance. This Castle is the first line defence and entrance to London, by both sea and land. And shows some perspective of how important Dover Castle must have been. This Castle was also vital for protecting the capital of England, heart of the British Empire. Source 2 also briefly states Dover Castle being seen from London roads as 'Majestic', and a 'Fortified City' rather than just a Castle. This is somewhat a symbolic and geographical factor. (The Castle was almost indestructible as it was so high up, but also signified Britain’s power.)

Join now!

Chalk is another huge geographical feature when discussing Dover Castle’s attributes. The geology of Dover (chalk) is an easy substance to dig into, making it the site the perfect location to build a system of tunnels. This supports its medieval use of canons and mortars, all the way up too WW2 later on. Source 5 reinforces this idea of Dover Castle being continuously active. It shows Dover Castle’s tunnels acting as a suitable headquarters for ATS Girls 'plotting enemy ship movements' during WW2. Furthermore, making Dover Castle atypical compared to other castles.

Henry II in the 12th Century ...

This is a preview of the whole essay