Understanding the Feudal System: A Deep Dive into Medieval Society
The Feudal System: A Comprehensive Overview
3.3. Defining Feudalism
Feudalism, a cornerstone of classical history, is widely recognized for its feudal-vassal institutions. Modern historiography views feudalism as a system of dependency relationships that shaped medieval society. The traditional understanding of vassalage emphasizes a personal bond between lord and vassal, involving an exchange of loyalty, protection, and service. The vassal typically received a grant of land (a fief) in return for
Read MoreVisigothic Law and the Liber Iudiciorum
Christianity
Origins and Development
Christianity originated from the teachings of Christ, found in sacred texts written after his time. Within the Jewish context, Christ was seen as the Messiah. After his death, a set of beliefs formed, leading to the separation of Christianity from Judaism. This new faith centered on salvation through Christ’s death and resurrection.
Open to all, Christianity required only baptism and Eucharist, regardless of ethnicity. Key features of its development include:
- Gradual
Key Figures of Renaissance Humanism
Renaissance Humanism and its Leading Figures
What is Renaissance Humanism?
Renaissance Humanism was a transformative intellectual and cultural movement that emerged in Europe during the 14th century and flourished throughout the Renaissance period. It marked a renewed interest in classical antiquity, emphasizing human potential and achievement. Humanists sought to revive the study of Greek and Roman literature, philosophy, and art, believing that these provided valuable insights into human nature
Read MoreThe Church and Monasticism in Early Medieval Europe
The Life of Saint Benedict
Early Life and Hermitage
Born in Nursia, Italy, in 480, Saint Benedict belonged to a family of modest means and noble virtues. At a young age, he traveled to Rome to study rhetoric and law. He desired a successful career, but at the age of 20, he abandoned his ambitions and journeyed to Subiaco. There, he sought God in solitude and prayer, living as a hermit in a cave.
A Roman monk named Romano discovered Benedict and learned of his intention to lead a hermit’s life. Romano,
Read MoreA Concise History of Timekeeping and Historical Records
The knowledge and control of time-setting events in time is the basis of history. Our solar calendar comes from the Gregorian reform of 1582, so named because it was made by Pope Gregory XIII.El day is a measure not easily alterable and perceived by man, the seasons, although variable, are easily assumed by a economy agrícola.Las weeks is an artificial element and months are linked to changes in the luna.Los years, for their part, were spaces too long, and it was very difficult to measure its duration.
Read MoreOld Castile Law: Origin, Evolution, and Decline
Old Castile Law
Origin and Development
Castile had a Common Law tradition different from the Liber, resulting in significant judicial creativity. While some mention “laws” of Castile (e.g., Count Sancho García’s “good outside”), Castile lived without formal, king-imposed laws until the 13th century, according to Galo Sanchez. This doesn’t mean there wasn’t a recognized Castilian law, distinct from Leon’s. Chapter VIII of the Council of Coyanza (1055) confirms Castilian law and orders its continued
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