Medieval European Society and Governance
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The Middle Ages
Feudalism
Medieval Society
- Kings and Queens
- Rulers
- Nobility
- Lords and Knights
- Controlled the land
- Clergy
- Church officials
- Peasants
- Majority of the population
- Worked the land and served the nobles
Feudalism
A political and social system based on the granting of land in exchange for loyalty, military assistance, and other services.
Feudalism
Developed as a result of frequent invasions in western Europe. Kings and nobles needed a way to protect their lands.
Feudalism
- Lords divided their lands into estates called fiefs.
- Fiefs (land) given to vassals.
- A person granted land in return for loyalty or military service.
- All nobles were vassals to the king.
Feudalism
- Knights: Mounted warriors who protected lord’s lands. Given land for their services.
- Chivalry: Code of ethics followed by knights. Honesty, fairness in battle, loyalty, proper treatment of women.
Feudal Obligations
- Provide military service
- Remain loyal and faithful
- Give money on special occasions
- Give Land
- Protect from attack
- Resolve disputes between knights
Manorial System
An economic system in the Middle Ages that was built around large estates called manors. Included a village and the land surrounding it.
Manorial System
Manors were self-sufficient. Most things needed for daily life were produced on the manor.
Manorial System
- Serfs: Peasants who lived and worked on the lord’s manor. Were not allowed to leave the manor or marry without the lord’s permission. Were allowed to farm on the manor in return for work.
- Lords were required to protect the serfs.
Manorial System
The life of a serf was harsh. Worked long hours, few lived past 35 years old. Based on heredity: You were a serf if your parents were.
The Harshness of Manor Life
- Peasants pay taxes to use the mill and bakery; pay a tithe to the priest.
- Tithe—a church tax—is equal to one-tenth of a peasant’s income.
- Serfs live in crowded cottages with dirt floors, straw for beds.
- Worked long hours raising crops, livestock; feeding and clothing family.
- Poor diet, illness, malnutrition make life expectancy 35 years.
- Serfs generally accept their lives as part of God’s plan.
Manorial System
- Freemen: Skilled workers who paid rent to nobles and could leave the manor. Ex. Blacksmith and millers.