Vasals

A vassal was a person who held land from a feudal lord in exchange for loyalty and service. This system, known as feudalism, was prevalent in medieval Europe. The lord granted the vassal a fief, which could be land, a position, or some other privilege. In return, the vassal was obligated to provide various services to the lord, most commonly military aid, but also counsel, financial assistance, and attendance at court.

The relationship between lord and vassal was formalized through a ceremony called homage and fealty. During homage, the vassal would declare himself the lord's "man," placing his hands between the lord's and pledging his loyalty. Fealty was an oath of faithfulness, often sworn on religious relics. This bond was a cornerstone of medieval society, providing a framework for governance and defense.

Vassals could themselves be lords to other vassals, creating a complex hierarchy. A king would be at the top, granting land to his major nobles, who in turn would grant land to lesser nobles, and so on. The obligations and rights of vassals varied depending on the specific agreement and the social standing of both parties. While often associated with military service, the role of a vassal could encompass a wide range of duties that were essential for the functioning of medieval states.