| A | B |
|---|
| Middle Ages | Began with the fall of the Western Roman Empire in 476 and ended in the 1400’s. The main characteristics of this time were the growth of feudalism, lack of education, and the strong influence of the Roman Catholic Church. Also called Medieval Period. |
| Dark Ages | A period of several hundred years during the early Middle Ages when fear and confusion spread over Western Europe. The threat of attack led to the start of feudalism. Trade, education, and the growth of towns declined during this time. |
| Fedualism | A political system during the Middle Ages in which people received land and protection from a lord when they worked and fought for him. |
| Manor | A large piece of land owned by a lord. Also called an estate. |
| King | Ruler of a country or territory. |
| Lord | Well-to-do noble who owned an estate. Usually lived in a castle. Gave land to vassals in return for military service. Used serfs to farm the land. |
| Knight | A man of honor who held a high military rank. Usually the son of a lord. Trained in warfare and followed the Code of Chivalry. |
| Vassals | A noble who was given land by the lord in return for military assistance and other service to the lord. |
| Serfs | Poor people who worked for lords during the Middle Ages. They belonged to the land and were not allowed to leave the manor. Worked long hours and poorly fed and clothed. Also called peasants. |
| Nobility | A class of rich people; lords or nobles. |
| Code of Chivalry | The ten commandments of knighthood. |
| Clergy | An official of the Church such as a priest, bishop, or cardinal. |
