feudalism

feudalism

1. lord

   • owner of the fief
     • granted and protected the vassal
       • could be a lord and vassal at the same time

2. vassal

   • protector/worker of the fief
     • provide military service to the lord per year, and pledge loyalty to Lord
       • could be a lord and vassal at the same time

3. noble

   • great land holders (usually lords)
     • could be the vassal to a greater lord, while being a lord to a lesser vassal
       • nobles were usually born into wealthy families

4. fief

   • an estate in which you get land in exchange for a service
     • also known as manors: self sufficient property run by serfs
       • heart of feudalism