FEUDALISM (1/2)

Question 1

What social organization spread in Europe starting in the 10th century?

Answer 1

Feudalism

Feudalism was characterized by mutual dependence between social classes.

Question 2

What were the two main relationships of dependency in feudalism?

Answer 2

Vassalage and servitude

These relationships involved rights and obligations between different social classes.

Question 3

Why could monarchs not maintain control during the rise of feudalism?

Answer 3

They lacked the means to collect taxes and maintain an army

This insecurity led to the delegation of power to nobles.

Question 4

What did monarchs delegate to nobles in the feudal system?

Answer 4

Part of their power

Nobles organized private armies and became vassals to the king.

Question 5

What is a fief in the context of feudalism?

Answer 5

A territory granted to nobles in exchange for loyalty and military aid

Nobles became feudal lords with significant power.

Question 6

Define vassalage in feudalism.

Answer 6

A pact of fidelity between the king and the nobles

The higher-ranked noble, or lord, protected the lower-ranked vassal.

Question 7

What is the significance of homage in the feudal system?

Answer 7

It is the ceremony where the vassal pledges fidelity to the king

The vassal kneels and promises advice and military aid.

Question 8

What does investiture entail in the feudal system?

Answer 8

The king grants land (fiefdom) to the vassal

This land is for the vassal to govern and exploit economically.

Question 9

What was the status of peasants in the feudal system?

Answer 9

They became servants of a feudal lord

They lost their freedom and had to give part of their harvest.

Question 10

Describe the inequality of feudal society.

Answer 10

Feudal society was characterized by unequal relationships

The obligations and rights varied greatly between classes.