Use the table to compare and contrast the different systems in Eastern and Western Europe. Summarize your findings in at least four paragraphs. Then, use your research findings about feudalism to discuss the similarities and differences between the two regions. Present your discussion in at least one paragraph.
Comparison of the feudal system in Eastern and Western Europe:
Four-paragraph summary of research findings:
Paragraph discussing the similarities and differences:
In my research, I have found several key differences and similarities between the different systems in Eastern and Western Europe. Firstly, in terms of political systems, Eastern Europe was dominated by a feudal system, where power was centralized in the hands of powerful feudal lords. In contrast, Western Europe had a more decentralized political structure, with power being shared between the king and regional nobility. This resulted in a more fragmented political landscape in Western Europe.
Secondly, there were significant differences in the social structure of Eastern and Western Europe. In Eastern Europe, the social hierarchy was based primarily on land ownership, with the feudal lords at the top, followed by the church clergy, and then the peasants. In contrast, the social structure in Western Europe was more complex and fluid. While land ownership was still important, social status was also influenced by factors such as wealth, education, and birth.
Additionally, there were differences in the economic systems of the two regions. In Eastern Europe, the feudal system was characterized by an agricultural economy, where the majority of the population worked on and lived off the land. In contrast, Western Europe experienced significant economic growth and development during this period, with the rise of trade and commerce. The feudal system in Western Europe also allowed for the development of a merchant class and the emergence of towns and cities.
Furthermore, religious differences played a significant role in shaping the different systems in Eastern and Western Europe. In Eastern Europe, the Orthodox Church had a strong influence on both the political and social structures, with the church often aligning itself with the feudal lords. In Western Europe, the Catholic Church held significant power, but there was also a growing presence of Protestantism, which challenged the authority of the Catholic Church and contributed to religious conflict.
In terms of the feudal system, both Eastern and Western Europe shared some similarities. Both regions had a hierarchical social structure, with the feudal lords at the top and the peasants at the bottom. Landownership was a key factor in determining social status in both regions. However, there were also significant differences. In Eastern Europe, the feudal lords had more centralized political power and often aligned themselves with the Orthodox Church. In contrast, Western Europe had a more decentralized political structure, with power being shared between the king and regional nobility. Additionally, Western Europe experienced more economic growth and development, thanks to the rise of trade and commerce, compared to the predominantly agricultural economy of Eastern Europe.