Middle Ages and France pt.2 Feudalism

Feudalism

Social system based on land ownership and obligations.

Fief

Land granted to a vassal by a lord.

Vassal

Person receiving land in exchange for service.

Serf

Bound peasant with limited rights, not a slave.

Manor

Self-sufficient estate owned by a lord.

Tithe

Church tax equal to 10% of income.

Knighthood

Status of being a knight with specific duties.

Chivalry

Code of conduct for knights emphasizing honor.

Page

Young boy training to become a knight at age 7.

Squire

Knight's apprentice, typically at age 14.

Trial by Combat

Dispute resolution through battle between parties.

Trial by Compurgation

Oath-taking with witnesses to determine truth.

Trial by Ordeal

Accused undergoes a test to prove innocence.

Longbow

Powerful weapon allowing long-range attacks.

Pope

Highest authority in the Catholic Church.

Cardinals

Senior church officials assisting the pope.

Bishops

Church leaders overseeing multiple parishes.

Parish Priest

Local church leader serving a community.

Excommunication

Banning an individual from church participation.

Interdict

Banning an entire region from church services.

Holy Roman Empire

Political entity formed from Germany and Italy.

Lay Investiture

Ceremony where kings appoint church officials.