History The Feudal System Questions
The main laws and customs in the Feudal System included the following:
1. Lordship and Vassalage: The system was based on the exchange of land for loyalty and military service. Lords granted land, known as fiefs, to vassals in exchange for their allegiance and military support.
2. Primogeniture: The principle of inheritance where the eldest son inherited the entire estate of his father, ensuring the continuity of land ownership within noble families.
3. Manorialism: The economic aspect of feudalism, where the lord owned large estates called manors. Peasants, known as serfs, worked the land in exchange for protection and the right to live on the manor.
4. Feudal Hierarchy: Society was structured in a hierarchical manner, with the king at the top, followed by nobles, knights, and peasants. Each level had specific rights and obligations towards those above and below them.
5. Feudal Obligations: Vassals owed their lords various obligations, including military service, providing counsel, and paying feudal dues such as taxes or rent.
6. Chivalry: A code of conduct followed by knights, emphasizing virtues such as honor, loyalty, and bravery. Knights were expected to protect the weak, uphold justice, and serve their lord.
7. Subinfeudation: The practice of vassals granting portions of their land to sub-vassals, creating a complex web of feudal relationships and obligations.
8. Divine Right of Kings: The belief that kings were chosen by God and held absolute power, making them the ultimate authority in the feudal system.
These laws and customs formed the foundation of the Feudal System, governing the relationships and obligations between lords, vassals, and peasants.