Feudalism in the middle ages Section 3 (242-247)

Just a recap… Monks established monasteries as centers of faith and learning. Charlemagne was crowned king of the Franks. Charlemagne unified much of western Europe.(France, Germany, Switzerland, Italy) Kingdom referred to as the Frankish kingdom. Invaders (Muslims, Vikings, Magyars) threatened parts of Europe.

These lands would eventually become the holy roman empire

Feudalism begins The Frankish army could not protect against invaders (Magyars, Muslims, Vikings). Nobles began to defend their own lands. The nobles became very powerful and governed their lands independently, but still remained loyal to the king. Eventually, this system of government was called feudalism.

Knights Nobles hired knights to defend their territories. Knights wore armor and fought on horseback. They were skilled warriors who could defend the nobles’ land holdings. Knights required expensive equipment (armor and horses).

Knights and land Knights were paid with land called fiefs (fyfes). The knight would swear allegiance to a lord in return for land. He was called a vassal. This allegiance was called an Oath of Fealty, and the knight was responsible for defending the lord’s land.

Squires Knights had assistants called squires, who would maintain weapons and armor and care for the knight’s horses. Squires were “knights in training” and would eventually become knights themselves.

A knight’s armor Knights wore steel or iron armor to protect themselves. Suits of armor were custom made and could weigh 55 lbs! Squires would maintain the armor and help the knight put it on (this would take a while)

swords Claymore The knight’s primary weapon was his sword. Like the Katana, the sword was treated with great respect. Knights used broadswords and claymore swords. Many knights would give their swords names (Excalibur). Broadsword

Knights in the social hierarchy Knights became very important figures and were respected for their bravery Many became lords as they owned large amounts of land. Knights followed a code of chivalry, which valued honor and loyalty.

The lord’s responsibilities Both lords and vassals had responsibilities towards each other. Lords were expected to take care of their vassals and treat them fairly. Lords provided their vassals with land, food, and protection.

Vassal’s responsibilities Vassals, such as knights, were expected to help protect the lord in times of conflict. Vassals were expected to give their lords money for special occasions. This was called paying tribute. Vassals were also expected to provide their lords with food and shelter should they come visit. If a vassal gained enough land, he too could become a lord. People could be both vassals and lords at the same time.

Vassals were anyone who was loyal to someone in the feudal system.