Feudalism

Feudalism SOL WH1.9b

Influence of

BarbariansManors with castles provided protection

Trade was disrupted and towns declined

Strengthened the feudal system

FeudalismDeveloped in response to the instability of life after the decline of the Roman Empire

Rich, powerful rulers granted land (fief) to lesser lords (vassals) in exchange for loyalty (fielty), soldiers, and food

Peasants and serfs farmed the land of nobles in exchange for protection during war

Relationships between classes

The Great Chain of Being

Social hierarchy existed to maintain order.

People's roles in life were determined by their birth and were not generally questioned.

Created a secure, productive way of life.

Is it better to be safe or free?

The PopeGod’s representative on Earth

Papal supremacy– held power over all secular rulers

MonarchsSupreme ruler believed to have been chosen by God

Granted land and titles to people in exchange for loyalty and service

ClergyProvided sacraments, education, and preserved learning

Often the only literate people in a village

BishopsAbbots/Abbesses Monks/NunsPriests

NobilityLocal rulers

Offered protection to serfs in exchange for labor on manors (self-sufficient farms)

Raised armies for the king

ExamplesDuke/DuchessEarl/CountessKnight/Lady

MerchantsNew middle class

Artisans and craftsman

BlacksmithsCarpentersMasons

Traded goods across Europe

PeasantsSerfs—peasants bound to a manor

Life was nasty, brutish, and short

Labor force – had Sundays and holy days (holidays) off

ServantsFarmers

Dregs of SocietyPeople no one wants around

ForeignersBeggarsLepersCriminalsVagrants