Feudalism
What is feudalism? From the 10 th and 11 th centuries onwards, a new political, economic and social system called feudalism appeared in western Europe. The monarchs, unable to defend and control their kingdoms, granted lands (fiefdoms) to nobles and clergy (feudal lords) to govern on their behalf. In exchange, these lords became their vassals , pledged allegiance to them and provided them with military assistance. Society was divided into three estates . While the first two estates enjoyed all the privileges (the nobility and clergy), the third (peasants and artisans) had none and paid all the taxes. Feudal Society. Vicens-Vives The feudal monarchy The monarch sat at the top of the feudal pyramid and was considered chosen by God to govern society in his name. The Holy Roman Emperor was regarded by the Pope as the defender of Christianity and the guardian of its unity. The nobility The nobility's primary social ...