What started the Middle Ages?
 The fall of Rome
Why did learning decline during this time period?
 German invaders couldn’t read and write
What is the Feudal system based on?
 Mutual obligations – a give and take
Who were the Northmen?
 Vikings
What is a synonym for Serf?
 Peasant
What is a Fief?
 The estate – land given or granted
What is a tithe? How much of your income should it be? Who do you give your tithe too?
 A church tax
 10%
 The church
Who was the Feudal contract usually between?


Higher person – lower person
A greater lord – a lesser lord or vassal

How would you define/ Describe a Medieval Serf?
 Poor
 Bound to the land but not a slave
 Worked for the lord
 Produced food and other jobs for the lord
Define the Medieval Manor.
 The lord’s estate and the surrounding lands
 A self-sufficient community
Describe the tournament.
 Dangerous
 People could bleed and/or die
 Practice for battle
 Spectator sport
What would knights exchange military service for?
 land
What is a Troubadour?
 Poet - musician
Who were the lowest ranking members of the clergy?
 The priests
What is a sacrament?
 A religious or Christian ceremony
 Baptism, weddings, excommunication
Define Canon Law.
 Church law
Define Lay Investiture
 The king picks or appoints church officials
 Against the law

1.
Explain the steps that lead to the development of Feudalism
2.
Describe how feudalism works
3.
Why it is important in Medieval society.
Feudalism is the social or political structure that developed in the Middle Ages. Feudalism develops starting with the fall of the Roman Empire.

After Rome fell there was no government structure and cities fell apart.

Constant invasion and no political leaders led people to leave the cities

People leave the cities looking for a safe place to live in the rural areas

They still need land, a home, and safety (a government structure) in a new location

They turn to wealthy landowners for help why – they have extra land, extra money, need workers and have the knights to protect serfs in exchange for their labor

This give and take relationship – the making of agreements to work in exchange for protection and land- is what feudalism is all about and it led to the development of the
Manor System