In the article, Hugh Schofield tells us how, with his partner, businesswoman Maryline Martin, Guyot, who already owns an old castle nearby, is making a reality of his dream "to build a castle from scratch, using only contemporary tools and materials" (2010, ¶ 2). As Schofield relates, the project serves several purposes: it is providing new insights into mediaeval building techniques, providing useful employment for local people, and generating tourism and interest in the region and it's history.
After the photographs got my attention, there were a few things I liked about the story. First is that Guyot's idea was done to help others. I don't know if they benefiting from it or not, but something people that people often forget is that business people or entrepreneurs who initiate new projects create value for many others via job creation and the like, and this appears to have been Guyot and Martin's main aim from the start. But along the way it has returned valuable archaeological insights, such as explaining the reason for the use of two kilns at other such sites. I also found the detail about the effect of leaching lime on the walls fascinating. It has also taken on an enthralling life of its own, with the creation of an avatar like (or do I mean symbolic?) lord to give soul to the creation. It's a good example of altruistic behaviour motivated by a passionate interest in something, and not constrained by any tedious obsession with cost benefit analyses.
I thought that this story made for a less serious example of a response than the recent Supreme Court decision that I blogged on a couple of days ago.
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And now we are looking forward to four more responses to something in the news.
ReplyDeleteWhen I finished reading this article, it reminds me of the famous and enchanting German castles, Neuschwanstein Castle, which is consider as a medieval structure. What makes it even more special is that we have, I believe, seen it, but mostly a cartoon version. Walt Disney has been inspired by this magic to create its own castle in Disneyland’s’ Sleeping Beauty Castle.
ReplyDeleteAnother thing I liked was the exemplary use of the word contemporary, which is often misused to mean "now". I forgot to mention that when I was writing my response.
ReplyDeleteWhat a coincidence !
ReplyDeleteAnd Petch's comment reminded me of the collection of castles and other mediaeval architecture that serve as filming locations for the various Harry Potter films. The main one of which is Alnwick Castle, which dates from the 11th century. And Hogwarts is a long way from a castle rising in France.
ReplyDeleteInteresting news.
ReplyDeleteIt is great to realize our dream and help other people at the same time.