5/16/2014

Middle Ages

Feudalism
a political, military, and economic based land holding and protective alliance

King
Vassals
Nobles / Bishops
Knights (received fiefs for defending their lords land)
Peasants (mostly surfs)


Manor - The lords estate
-The Lords manor house
-a church
-Some work shops
-15-30 families
-all on a few square miles

Good news- it is self sufficient
Bad news its harsh if you're a peasant

Peasants are poor and pay high taxes
-tax on grains
-tax on marriage
-church tax (Tithe - 10% of income to go to church)
Lived in crowded cottages
Lived with animals and insects
Eat VERY simple
-don't worry the church says its your lot in life
-God determined your place in society