1. BELLWORK Read “Life in the Castle” pg. 117 and answer the following questions: 1.What are some characteristics of a Medieval castle? 2.What were the living conditions like in a castle? 3.What is a castle’s main purpose? 4.THINKER: Today we will start learning about Medieval Europe. “Medieval” literally translates to middle age. What were the “Middle Ages” in the middle of? (HINT: pg. 113)

3. Medieval Castle Project For this unit on Medieval History, you are going to create your own castle! 2D Drawing – by yourself 3D Model – up to 3 people per group Must encompass all the characteristics of a Medieval castle You must label all important parts of your castle You will also include a written description This will only be done outside of the classroom It is due Monday September 26th. This is worth 30 points!

6. Feudalism The people of Western Europe had no authority or government so they relied on a new political system called feudalism. Feudalism: form of government that stresses the ties of mutual aid between kings and nobles. Feudal relationships were like a pyramid  King, Nobles/Lords, Knights, Peasants.

7. How Feudalism Works Kings turned to nobles and granted them fiefs –Fief: land or estate with peasants Nobles were then given government powers over the fiefs In return, nobles used the income from fiefs to provide knights/warriors, horses, and battle equipment for the royal army. The main idea of Feudalism is that the nobles and the king help each other out; their success is dependent on one another.

9. Life Under Feudalism Since there was no central government, warfare occurred frequently. To protect themselves, nobles built castles and implemented the Chivalry Code (knights should be brave, fair, trustworthy, defend Christianity, and treat women courteously) Nobles/Lords: Total authority over fief  collected rent from peasants, used justice/punishment, and fought anyone trying to take his fief. (Women had no rights) Peasants: In return for protection, they farmed the land, paid taxes, and produced food for the nobles. Serf: peasants bound to the manor; could only leave with permission

12. CLOSURE What was the main purpose of a castle? How did all the levels within feudalism work together? What rights did the nobles have over the fiefs? What is the difference between a peasant and a serf?