Describe examples of the similarities and differences between monasticism and feudalism.

I don't know how to compare the two. My textbook says: Feudalism was a system in which weak noblemen gave up their lands and much of their freedom to more powerful lords in return for protection. Monasticism was a way of life in which people gathered together to spend their days in prayer and self-denial.
HELP!!!

What does this have to do with fine art? To learn more about feudalism and monasticism, "google" both words and read lots. I'm not sure the two things are similar, but see what you can find and what conclusions YOU can draw.

This should get you started. http://www.bing.com/search?q=feudalism+in+the+middle+ages&FORM=QSRE3&ajf=70

I'll give you one hint of things to look for: both monasteries and convents had to have permission and were required to pay taxes (in some form) to the King or regional Lord, as were the nobles and peasants, for protection.

Certainly! I can help you understand the similarities and differences between monasticism and feudalism.

Similarities:
1. Hierarchy: Both monasticism and feudalism had hierarchical structures. In monasticism, there was usually an abbot or abbess who held authority over the monastery, while in feudalism, powerful lords held authority over vassals and peasants.

Differences:
1. Purpose and focus: Monasticism focused on spiritual pursuits, such as prayer, meditation, and self-denial. The primary goal was to seek personal salvation and dedicate one's life to religious devotion. Feudalism, on the other hand, was primarily concerned with establishing political and social order through the exchange of land and protection.

2. Lifestyle and location: Monasticism involved living in secluded communities called monasteries or convents, typically detached from the secular world. Monks and nuns lived a life of simplicity, celibacy, and obedience to their religious order. In contrast, feudalism encompassed a broader range of society and was based on a system of land ownership and military service. Feudal lords and their vassals resided in castles, manors, and villages.

3. Economic function: Monasticism was primarily self-sufficient and focused on providing for the community's basic needs. Monasteries often engaged in agriculture, brewing, or other crafts to sustain themselves. Feudalism, on the other hand, revolved around economic relationships based on land. Peasants worked the land owned by the lord in exchange for protection, while the lord collected taxes and services from the peasants.

To compare the two, you can focus on their hierarchical structures, with both having leaders who held authority. However, their purposes, lifestyles, and economic functions were markedly different. Monasticism focused on spiritual pursuits and communal living, while feudalism was centered around political organization and land ownership.

To further understand these concepts, you could explore additional resources like history textbooks, online articles, or scholarly journals that provide more detailed information on monasticism and feudalism in the specific historical context you are studying.