Medieval Europe: Society and Economy

The video tutorial covers Unit 3 on Feudal Europe, focusing on the manor system, serfdom, and peasant life. It explains the feudal system as a political, economic, and social structure in Western Europe, driven by fear of foreign invaders. The roles of vassals, lords, and kings are discussed, along with land use and tenements. The feudal pyramid of power illustrates social hierarchy and exchanges. The video compares the lives of lords, peasants, and religious orders, highlighting the importance of religion. The feudal economy is mainly agricultural, with limited trade due to ongoing wars. The tutorial concludes with a call to prepare for the next class and the guild project.

What was the primary reason for the establishment of the feudal system in Western Europe?

• To promote trade and commerce

• To protect against foreign invaders

• To establish a democratic government

• To encourage cultural exchange

In the feudal system, what was the main responsibility of a vassal?

• To oversee religious ceremonies

• To manage the king's treasury

• To collect taxes from peasants

• To provide military support and advice to their lord

What is a 'fief' in the context of the feudal system?

• A type of medieval weapon

• A plot of land granted to a vassal

• A religious artifact

• A form of currency

Which of the following best describes the feudal pyramid of power?

• A network of independent city-states

• A structure where the church holds the most power

• A hierarchy where land and protection are exchanged for services

• A system where power is equally distributed among all classes

What was the role of the church in medieval European society?

• To serve as a spiritual and social center

• To provide education and literacy to all

• To act as a center for trade and commerce

• To lead military campaigns

Why was the Bible not accessible to most peasants during medieval times?

• It was banned by the king

• It was written in Latin, which most could not read

• It was only available in monasteries

• It was considered too sacred for common people

What was the primary economic activity in medieval Europe?

• Fishing

• Mining

• Agriculture and livestock

• Manufacturing

Why was trade limited in medieval Europe?

• Due to the lack of roads

• Because of ongoing wars and invasions

• Due to high taxes on goods

• Because of religious restrictions

What was a common diet for peasants in medieval Europe?

• Meat and dairy products

• Bread and grains

• Fish and seafood

• Exotic fruits and spices

How did the climate of Western Europe affect agricultural practices?

• It limited the types of crops that could be grown

• It encouraged the growth of tropical fruits

• It made irrigation unnecessary

• It allowed for year-round farming