Feudalism and Manor Life

A set of vocabulary flashcards focusing on key terms and definitions related to feudalism and manor life in the Early Middle Ages.

Feudalism

A system governing the relationships between knights, nobles, and lords based on land ownership and military service.

Knight

A warrior who fought on horseback in exchange for land.

Lord

A noble who gives land (fiefs) to a knight in exchange for military support.

Vassal

A knight who promises to support a lord in exchange for land.

Fief

A piece of land given to a knight by a lord.

Serf

A worker tied to the land, unable to leave without permission.

Manor

A large estate owned by a knight or lord, including a house, pastures, fields, and a village.

Battle of Hastings

The 1066 battle where William the Conqueror defeated the English king to become king of England.

William the Conqueror

The Norman noble who brought feudalism to Britain after his victory in the Battle of Hastings.

Manor System

An economic system in the Middle Ages where lords owned land and peasants worked it.

Frankish Kings

Early rulers responsible for the establishment of feudalism in Europe.

Independent Territories

Lands ruled by nobles who showed loyalty but acted autonomously from the kings.

Growth of Towns

A development in the Middle Ages due to population increase and advancements in agriculture.

Trade Routes

Established paths across Europe facilitating the exchange of goods between merchants.

Decline of Feudalism

The weakening of the feudal system due to the growth of trade and towns.