Feudalism & Society
What was the main purpose of the feudal system?
To provide structure in medieval society by exchanging land for military service.
What was the purpose of a castle?
To provide defense and protect the people inside
What was another name for the Black Plague?
The Bubonic Plague
What were the Crusades?
Religious wars fought between Christians and Muslims over the Holy Land
What was "Trial by Ordeal"?
A medieval justice system where the accused was tested by fire, water, or combat to determine guilt
Name the four levels of the feudal system
King, Nobles, Knights, Peasants/Serfs.
What was a siege?
A prolonged attack where the enemy surrounded a castle, cutting off supplies to force surrender.
How did the Black Plague spread?
Through fleas on rats and person-to-person contact.
Name one reason why people joined the Crusades.
Religious devotion, wealth, land, or forgiveness of sins
How was justice different in the Roman Empire compared to medieval Europe?
Romans used trial by jury, while medieval Europe relied on trial by ordeal.)
What role did the Catholic Church play in medieval society?
It provided spiritual guidance, education, healthcare, and law enforcement.
Name two methods used to attack a castle
Battering rams, trebuchets, siege towers
What were two medieval beliefs about what caused the plague?
Punishment from God, bad air, or planetary alignment.
What symbol was used by the Crusaders?
A red cross
What was the main form of punishment for crimes like theft in medieval Europe?
Fines, whipping, or time in the stocks
What was a tithe, and who had to pay it?
A tax equal to 10% of a person's earnings, paid to the Church by peasants
Name two defensive features of a castle.
Portcullis, murder holes, arrow slits, drawbridges, battlements
Name two effects of the Black Plague on Europe.
Labor shortages, decline in feudalism, higher wages for peasants, distrust in the Church
Why was the Holy Land important to both Christians and Muslims?
Christians believed it was where Jesus lived and died; Muslims believed it was where Muhammad ascended to heaven
Who was responsible for keeping law and order in a medieval village?
The lords
What was one disadvantage of being a peasant in the feudal system?
They had to work long hours for little pay and had no freedom to leave the land
What was a trebuchet, and how was it used in battle?
A large catapult-like weapon that launched heavy objects at castle walls.
What medical treatment was commonly used to "cure" the plague?
Bloodletting
What were two effects of the Crusades?
Increased trade, cultural exchange, and long-lasting religious tensions
How did trial by jury work?
A group of local people decided if the accused was guilty or innocent instead of relying on ordeals