The Middle Ages Flashcards
Feudal system
The feudal system was how the society was organised in the Middle Ages.
Middle Ages/ Medieval Period
It is the time between the end of the Roman Empire and what we call the modern times.
Demesne
Land for the Kings own use.
Vassals
The Kings followers. Some could be lords with titles like earls or count. Others could be abbots and bishops
Knight
Were soldier who rode into battle on horseback and fought for their lords.
Serf
A peasant who was tied to the land and could not leave or get married without permission. Had to pay heavy taxes and rent.
Freeman
A peasant who did not give free labour but still had to pay taxes and rent and could leave and get married without permission
Manor
Small villages or farms owned by the local Lord or knight.
Tithe
The tax from the priest. One-tenth of their crop.
Commons
Where all the peasants animals grazed together.
Open field system
The method in which peasants farmed. Splitting each field into designated strips.
Fallow
Leaving the soil to rest, and would be fertile for next year.
Crop rotation
Every year the farming method would change this is called crop rotation.
Pottage
A mixture of vegetable soup and oatmeal.
Bailiff
The bailiff brought those who were accused of crime to the manor house.
Sanctuary
If a person who was being hunted by the bailiff ran into a church or monastry, the bailiff would not be able to arrest him there.
Motte and Bailey
The Motte was a hill with a fort on top. The Bailey was the enclosure below the Motte.
Moat
Trench dug around the castle sometimes filled with water.
Keep
The main building where the Lord and his family lived.
Battlements
At the top of the keep where soldiers kept guard watching out for the enemy.
Curtain walls.
Outer walls of the castle
Turrets
Strong towers along the walls
Drawbridge
A bridge that was raised at night or when an enemy was approaching
Portcullis
An iron grille that could be lowered in front of the castle gate.
Ramparts
Ran along the top of the walls