Feudalism in Medieval Europe

Overview of Feudalism

• Emerged around 1000 CE during a period of population growth and increased life expectancy in Europe.
• Warmer climate led to enhanced crop yields and the establishment of new towns.

Structure of Feudalism

• Kings were the primary rulers controlling land and establishing social order.
• Lords and knights served as military support for kings, forming a hierarchy of loyalty and service.
• Nobility held significant power, as they occupied key positions and received land grants.

Key Components

• Vassalage: A system in which lords (vassals) pledged loyalty to kings in exchange for land (fiefs).
• Lords received fiefs—a sizable plot of land—from kings, enabling them to manage and govern smaller territories.

Dynamics of Loyalty

• The relationship was based on mutual promises: vassals vowed to defend the king, while kings promised protection and support for their vassals.
• Oaths of loyalty were vital in maintaining feudal ties and fostering a sense of community among vassals.

Absence of Central Governments

• During the Middle Ages, the concept of nations or modern central governments was not fully established.
• Governance was instead characterized by interconnected networks of lords and vassals operating under kings’ authority.

Vocabulary

• Lord: A powerful individual controlling land granted by a king.
• Knight: A mounted soldier who serves a king or lord.
• Nobility: Influential families holding land (fiefs) and titles.
• Feudalism: A governmental system where land is exchanged for loyalty and military service.
• Vassal: A party receiving land from a ruler and agreeing to provide military service.
• Fief: The land granted to a vassal in exchange for loyalty.

Explore the structure of feudalism that emerged in Europe around 1000 CE. As towns grew and populations increased, the relationships between kings, lords, and knights defined a new political and social order. Discover how these changes impacted life during this pivotal time.