Transcript Feudalism
Feudalism and the Middle Ages European Middle Ages Middle Ages – era of European history from 500 A.D. to 1500 A.D. New institutions slowly emerged to replace the Roman Empire. Meanwhile, civilizations flourished in China and Southwest Asia while Europe was fragmented. Middle Ages – DARK AGES – Why??? 1. Disruption of Trade - Loss of a common language 2. Downfall of Cities - - Cities were abandoned as centers of administration Decline of learning 3. Population Shifts - Nobles retreated to rural areas Cities had no leadership Carolingian Rulers (Dynasty) 751-987 A.D. Pepin the Short – Left a greatly strengthened kingdom – Leaves it to son Charles Charlemagne 6’4”, heavy set, blue eyes with a flowing mustache (see Coach Melbourn) – Most successful empire since the collapse of Rome Government – limited the authority of Nobles and sent Counts to govern counties. Cultural Revival – He opened a palace school and encouraged the monks to maintain what history was left from Rome. Feudalism Carolingian Empire INVASIONS!!!! Vikings from Scandinavia Men like Erik Bloodaxe and Thorfinn Skullsplitter would take their huge oar ships and raid cities and villages plundering and looting. There was no organized defense against these savage warriors and their hit and run raids. Way of the Viking Viking Raids Vikings are also called Norsemen. They sailed to modern Britain and France eventually establishing colonies as far as Russia and the islands in the North Atlantic. Home – small villages in homes made of logs or boards To go a-Viking... Same as go on an adventure overseas. Vikings continued Eric the Red reached Greenland in 986. His son Leif Ericson reached the northeast coast of North America say the sagas. Leif Ericson They wore metal helmets decorated with pictures of animals, and shirts made from iron rings covered by a large piece of cloth that protected them when they raided. Feudalism The largest raids were coming between 850 and 950 A.D. Feudalism – The effect of barbarian attacks and resulted as a form of defense for both the nobility and peasants. European Feudal Society King Lord/ Vassels/ Church Officials Knight Peasant/Serf Social Classes Those who fought – Nobles and Knights Those who prayed – Men and women of the Church Those who worked – Peasants and Serfs Nobles and Knights Feudalism is based on mutual obligations. A lord grants land called a Fief to a Vassal who is a Noble. Knights serve the Vassal in exchange for land. In return, they offer their sword. Peasants do not fight!!!! Knight video Chivalry A code of complex ideals for a knight. The ideal knight was loyal, brave, and courteous, however, this did not always apply to the lower classes. It evolved into today’s good manners and values He has 3 masters: His Feudal lord His Heavenly Lord His chosen lady Tournaments Knights would hone their skills at mock battles called tournaments. Troubadours – poet musicians who entertained at castles and courts of Europe. They would be seen at tournaments. Development of a Knight Page Age 7 - Sent to a castle of another lord. This is where he receives his education. Squire Age 14 – Servant to the knight, takes care of the horse, armor, and weapons. Knight Age 21 – His lord will dub him a knight. Manors Medieval Castles Castle video