Impact of the Black Death and the Structure of Feudalism

These flashcards cover key concepts related to the impact of the Black Death and the structure of feudalism in medieval Europe.

What impact did the Black Death have on traditional funerary rites?

Many traditional funerary rites were abandoned due to the overwhelming number of deaths, leading to communal burials and mass graves.

How did the Black Death affect people's trust in the Church?

People became suspicious of the Church as they prayed for relief but saw little change, diminishing their trust in religious institutions.

What is an empire?

An empire is a vast territory ruled by a single leader, often encompassing various peoples and cultures.

What was the role of emperors in the Roman Empire?

Emperors held the most power, governing the empire with the assistance of senates but maintaining ultimate control.

How did the Roman Empire maintain stability and control over its population?

The Roman Empire used bread and circuses (free food and entertainment), huge public games, and monuments to keep the population happy and loyal.

What led to the economic struggles of the Roman Empire?

The imperial treasury struggled to fund military and administration, leading to increased taxation and economic challenges.

What was feudalism?

Feudalism was a social system in medieval Europe where land was exchanged for military service, providing order and stability to society.

Who were the key players in the feudal system?

Kings, nobles (landowners), knights (professional warriors), and peasants (working the land) comprised the key components of the feudal system.

What challenges did feudalism face by the 1300s?

Feudalism began to show cracks, indicating social and economic issues as population growth led to increased pressure on resources.

What was the Church's role in medieval society before the Black Death?

The Church was central to daily life, providing spiritual guidance, law, and community support, significantly affecting people's reliance on religion.