Peasant life in the Middle Ages was noticeably difficult. Families and entire villages were exposed to disease, war and generally a life of poverty. In the eleventh and twelfth centuries, most people across Europe were peasants or “velleins” who worked in the vast stretches of lands owned by the local lords. There is very little … Read more
Here are some of the most common words and middle ages vocabulary: Vassals These were local lords at the bottom of the lordship hierarchy. They served the superior lords in a military position. Fief This term was used to describe an estate that would range between a few acres to many acres. This estate would … Read more
Guilds were important socio-political structures of the society of Middle Ages as they were considered an essential part of life at that time. People were encouraged by the feudal system to be a member of a guild and their membership could help them to attain higher social status. A number of advantages were given to … Read more
Following the defeat of the Anglo Saxon at the Battle of Hastings in 1066, William the Conquer and the Normans laid the groundwork for the middle ages feudal system. However even before this, there were structures and systems that had already paved way for feudalism in much of England. The Growth of the Feudal System … Read more
Although the middle Ages are generally characterized as a tumultuous time, the truth is that many interesting things took place within the society. From the nobility to the peasants, the merchants to the clergy, the women and men, humans and animals, the middle ages were packed with fascinating happenings. Here are some middle ages facts: … Read more
This brief timeline of Middle Ages events mentions details of the major events during the Middle Ages which were significant to the lives and incidences of famous people, Kings and lords of the Middle Ages. The timeline starts with the beginning of the Dark Ages or Early Medieval period. The fall of Western Roman Empire … Read more
The middle ages economy was characterized by deep social stratification and a largely agricultural system. Even before the Normans invaded England, the market economy was an essential part of life in the medieval society. When the Normans invaded England, they imposed their institutions including serfdom, over the manorial intuitions that were already present in most … Read more
After the fall of Roman Empire, the social life and customs of general populace was deeply influenced by tumultuous periods of wars and political changes. As a result, the middle ages customs were basically an amalgamated mixture of Roman, Germanic and Gallic cultures and customs. This fusion of cultures was basically promoted by Kings and … Read more
Crafts in the Middle Ages has a different connotation than crafts today. Largely, Middle Ages crafts were not hobbies or artistic demonstrations, but trades that had been studied and mastered by craftsmen. Craftsmen joined forces and organized in craft guilds that allowed them the opportunity to gain prestige, power, and wealth through the practice of … Read more
Almost all major European cities of current world had their roots in the Middle Ages. However, some of Middle Ages cities weren’t as important as they are now. After the fall of Roman Empire new kingdoms were evolving and to ensure security of the members of nobility against the barbarian invaders and Islamic attackers, kings … Read more
