Feudalismand the

Middle Ages5th century – 12th century

What is Feudalism?

• Relationship between a lord, a vassal, a serf, and a fief

• Originated in what is now known as France during the Middle Ages (a.k.a. = Dark Ages)

Player # 1: LORD

• Owns the land and politically controls the region

• Is wealthy• Often lives in a large

castle (think of picture shown earlier)

• Is in desperate need of military protection

Player # 2: VASSAL• Also known as a knight• the vassal swears to protect

the lord in exchange for use of the lord’s land (he is only borrowing the land)

• The vassal generally has it farmed by the serfs

• The vassal must formally enter into the arrangement by way of the “commendation ceremony.” Where the vassal would take the oath of homage and fealty (protection of the lord).

Player # 3: SERF

• Also known as a peasant• They work the land• They were often bound to

the land and could not leave without permission

• At the peak of Feudalism, 90% of Western Europe were peasants

• Life was not always pleasant

Player # 4: THE FIEF

• The land owned by the Lord in which the vassal borrows from

• The vassal earns revenue from it by having the serfs farm the fief

The Basic Structure

LORD

SERF SERF SERF SERF SERF

VASSAL VASSAL