Feudalism and the Middle Ages

1. Feudalismand theMiddle Ages 5th century – 12th century

2. What is Feudalism? • Relationship between a lord, a vassal, a serf, and a fief • Originated in what is now known as France during the Middle Ages (a.k.a. = Dark Ages)

3. Player # 1: LORD • Owns the land and politically controls the region • Is wealthy • Often lives in a large castle (think of picture shown earlier) • Is in desperate need of military protection

4. Player # 2: VASSAL • Also known as a knight • the vassal swears to protect the lord in exchange for use of the lord’s land (he is only borrowing the land) • The vassal generally has it farmed by the serfs • The vassal must formally enter into the arrangement by way of the “commendation ceremony.” Where the vassal would take the oath of homage and fealty (protection of the lord).

5. Player # 3: SERF • Also known as a peasant • They work the land • They were often bound to the land and could not leave without permission • At the peak of Feudalism, 90% of Western Europe were peasants • Life was not always pleasant

6. Player # 4: THE FIEF • The land owned by the Lord in which the vassal borrows from • The vassal earns revenue from it by having the serfs farm the fief

7. The Basic Structure