HI101 Lecture Notes - Great Man Theory, Joseph Strayer, Carolingian Empire
Document Summary
Is there such a thing as the feudal system? (no. ) Easy way of referring to the time period; oversimplifies the age though. The role of legal scholars and feudal law . 19th century legal scholars overuse feudalism as a term. Cannot generalize countries or ages; people want a system, but it is not that simple. Scholars resist idea of jettisoning the term entirely. The feudal relationship (can acknowledge the social relationship) Lords, vassals, and fiefs: fief given to vassal in return for war service. Gradually, a limit was placed on the length of service required of vassals in offensive wars (usually 40 days) In holy wars, contracts signed for better reward because vassals would be gone so long. If going on a crusade, vassals may say no to aid (voluntary out of social relationship: taxation separate; if they pushed requests on vassals for aid it"s considered abuse. Could only ask for this a few times a year, it was expensive.
