FLASHCARD: The MIddle Ages PART 1 - THE RISE OF EUROPE

CHARLEMAGNE (KING OF THE FRANKS)

Fought against Muslims & briefly united Western Europe (parts of France, Germany and Italy). For helping the Pope, he was crowned Emperor of the Romans. Extended Christian civilization into northern Europe. Tried to revive Latin learning throughout his empire.

FEUDALISM

A loosely organized system of government. Mutual obligations between lord and vassal was based on the exchange of a fief (land) for loyalty & military service.

VASSALS

Also known as lesser lords. Powerful local lords divided their land among the vassals.

KNIGHTS

Mounted warriors who provided protection.

SERFS

Peasants who lived on the manor and were bound to the land.

PRIESTS

Explained the bible to the people because many did not read.

CASTLES FOR DEFENSE

Many lords built stone castles with high walls, towers and drawbridges over wide moats for defense.

MANORIALISM

The feudal economy was driven by the lord's estate or manor.

Manors were generally self-sufficient (able to produce all things needed in daily life)

Manors provided no schooling and little was known of the outside world.

MEDIEVAL CHURCH

The church becomes the dominant spiritual & secular (worldly) force in the lives of Christians.

Parish priests administered the sacraments (the sacred rites of the church)

PAPAL SUPREMACY (The Pope)

The pope had the authority over all secular (non-religious) rulers, kings and emperors.

CANON LAW

The church's set of laws (wills, marriages and morals).

EXCOMMUNICATION

People who went against Canon law were not allowed to receive the sacraments or a Christian burial.

INTERDICT

When a noble opposed the church an entire town could be excluded from receiving the sacraments.