Social Structure Of Medieval Europe

Feudalism Page 302 – Photo of the Feudal Pyramid o Was not a good law system o Peasants made up 90% of the population o Tribal warriors swore an oath to fight whenever needed. The chief provided weapons and horses. o The 3 aspects of Feudalism: economic (land and wealth) political (protection of territory) socially (rights) o In the 8 th century, the stirrup was invented, making horseback riding easier, and allowing them to wear more armor, and carry heavier weapons. After this, being called “knights” o Since weapons and horses were too expensive, Charles Martel gave his knights land instead of money. o From the 10 th -12 th century, lords and vassals common. o The king was the only person in the feudal society who did not have a lord.

o In the early middle ages, kings relied on lords to defend their kingdoms. o If the king was challenged by nobles, he became vulnerable. o Most kings were unsuccessful with controlling their lords. o Laborers worked for Lords and received protection in return. o Since there are so may kinds of people, the feudal system was extremely complex. o As towns were created, the citizens were no longer dependant on lords for their wealth as well as their living. o Status was based on wealth.

Feudal Obligations & Rights There contracts were the same as ours today, but they were not written down. There was a bond between the lord and the vassal and it was recognized in a formal ceremony. It took place whenever a Fief was granted or when a son inherited his fathers estate. The vassal pledged his loyalty in service by kneeling down and placing his hands between his lords hands. The lord then accepted this oath and granted the vassal the rights to the Fief giving him a handful of earth or a wooden stick as a symbol. If a vassal died, the lord acted as a guardian to his family.

Lords and Serfs Lords gave land and protection to the serfs. In return the serfs had to perform hours of labor and pay higher taxes and fees. If the serfs died, his wife had to pay a death tax, which is usually giving away there best animal. In doing this the serfs got to keep there land.

Review The 3 aspects of Feudalism: economic (land and wealth) political (protection of territory) socially (rights) The king was the only person in the feudal society who did not have a lord. status was based on wealth. Lords and vassals were very reliable on each other Serfs had little rights and had to pay taxes on far more things than most people.

Question How did feudalism provide order and some stability to Europeans at the times when wars raged constantly and there were few laws protecting people? dPE dPE