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The Three Orders
Question
What is meant by 'feudalism'?
Solution
The Term 'feudalism' has been used by historians to describe the economic, legal, political and social relationships that existed in Europe in the medieval era.
Derived from the German word 'feud', which means 'a piece of land', it refers to the kind of society that developed in medieval’ France, and later in England and in southern Italy.
Question
In the 6th century who named France ?
Solution
The Franks, a Germanic tribe, gave their name to Gaul, making it 'France'. From the sixth century, this region was a kingdom ruled by Frankish/French Kings, who were Christian.
The French had very strong links with the Church, which were further strengthened when in 800 the Pope gave King Charlemagne the title of‘Holy Roman Emperor’, to ensure his support.
Question
Describe two features of early feudal society in France.
Solution
French priests believed in the concept that people were members of one of the three 'orders', depending on their work. A bishop stated, 'Here below, some pray, others fight, still others work...'.
Thus, the three orders of society were broadly the clergy, the nobility and the peasantry.
Two features of early feudal society:
(i) The lord enjoyed special status. His order was supreme. Nobody could deny his order.
(ii) It was based on the lord peasants relationship. The peasants offered labour in the service of the service of their lord.
Question
Describe 'vassalage'.
Solution
Priests placed themselves in the first order and nobles in the second. The nobility had, in reality, a central role in social processes. This is because they controlled land. This control was the outcome of a practice called 'vassalage'.
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Mock Test Series
Mock Test Series