Nature of being a KIng and how people became KIng Flashcards
What was a medieval king expected to do?
- Be a strong ruler
- Enforce justice
- Keep the country safe from internal and external threats
What was the principle of primogeniture and was it followed in the 1100s?
The eldest son inherits the title of King from his father
No, people became king for other reasons as well
What happened when a king was anointed with holy oil?
He was given divine authority
Two features of the king’s duties
- Chief decision maker
- Showing fairness and mercy in his decisions
What were two features of how a King’s authority was ritualised and displayed?
i. The anointing with holy oils
ii. Being crowned in front of the most important nobles and members of the clergy
Define itinerant kingship
The practice of the king and his court travelling from place to place around the country
How did itinerant kingship help with encouraging loyalty from subjects?
It ensured that everyone knew he was the King