Comparing Feudal Systems Portfolio
In this activity, you will conduct ethical research to compare the feudal systems of Eastern and Western Europe. You will locate credible and reliable sources. You will use those sources to manage a project and create a digital presentation of your research using the Comparing Feudal Systems worksheet. Record your answers below.
Question 1
Conduct research online to locate at least three primary or secondary sources that describe the similarities and differences between feudalism in Eastern and Western Europe. Use your research findings and informational text from this lesson to compare and contrast the two regions. Use the table provided to record and organize your research findings.
Unfortunately, as an AI language model, I cannot conduct real-time research or access the internet. However, I can provide you with a general overview of the similarities and differences between feudalism in Eastern and Western Europe that might be useful for your research.
Similarities:
1. Social Hierarchy: Both Eastern and Western European feudal systems were characterized by a hierarchical social structure, with the monarch or king at the top, followed by nobles, knights, and peasants.
2. Landownership: Feudalism in both regions revolved around the exchange of land grants or fiefs in return for services and loyalty.
3. Feudal Obligations: Both systems included the concept of feudal obligations, where vassals owed loyalty, military service, and other duties to their lords in exchange for protection and the use of land.
Differences:
1. Economic Systems: Western European feudalism was primarily based on agriculture and the manorial system, where peasants worked on the lord's land in exchange for protection. In contrast, Eastern European feudalism often had a stronger focus on trade, commerce, and the development of independent cities.
2. Centralized Authority: Western European feudalism was characterized by more centralized authority under the rule of strong kings or monarchs, such as in France and England. In contrast, Eastern European feudalism exhibited more fragmented and decentralized authority, with competing powers and various regional lords.
3. Cultural Influences: Eastern European feudalism was influenced by the Byzantine Empire and the Orthodox Christian Church, whereas Western European feudalism was shaped by the influence of the Roman Catholic Church and the remnants of the Western Roman Empire.
Please keep in mind that these are general points and conducting further research using credible and reliable sources will provide you with more detailed and specific information for your presentation.