Feudalism in Medieval Society Flashcard

Front

What is feudalism?

Back

Feudalism is a social and economic system in medieval Europe where land was held by lords in exchange for military service, and peasants worked the land.

Front

What is manorialism?

Back

Manorialism is an economic system that was part of feudalism, where the lord's estate (manor) was the basic unit of economic power, focusing on agriculture.

Front

What is a fief?

Back

A fief is a large estate granted to a noble by a lord in exchange for loyalty and service.

Front

What role did serfs play in the feudal system?

Back

Serfs were peasants who worked the land for lords and were bound to the manor, providing labor in exchange for protection.

Front

What is the significance of the lord in feudalism?

Back

Lords were landowners who provided protection and justice to vassals and serfs in exchange for their service and loyalty.

Front

How did feudalism provide stability after the fall of the Roman Empire?

Back

Feudalism created a structured society with clear roles and responsibilities, helping to maintain order during a time of chaos.

Front

What is the relationship between a vassal and a lord?

Back

A vassal is a person who has received land (a fief) from a lord in exchange for loyalty and military service.

Front

What was the economic focus of manorialism?

Back

Manorialism focused on agriculture, with the manor serving as the economic center where peasants worked the land.

Front

What is the main purpose of a manor?

Back

The main purpose of a manor was to be the economic heart of the lord's domain, where agricultural production took place.

Front

What is the role of knights in the feudal system?

Back

Knights were warriors who served lords in exchange for land and protection, often providing military service.