BELLWORK• Read “Life in the Castle” pg. 117 and answer

the following questions:1. What are some characteristics of a Medieval

castle?2. What were the living conditions like in a castle?3. What is a castle’s main purpose? 4. THINKER: Today we will start learning about

Medieval Europe. “Medieval” literally translates to middle age. What were the “Middle Ages” in the middle of? (HINT: pg. 113)

Medieval Castle Project• For this unit on Medieval History, you are going to

create your own castle!• 2D Drawing – by yourself• 3D Model – up to 3 people per group• Must encompass all the characteristics of a Medieval

castle• You must label all important parts of your castle• You will also include a written description• This will only be done outside of the classroom• It is due Monday September 26th. • This is worth 30 points!

Feudalism• The people of Western Europe had no

authority or government so they relied on a new political system called feudalism.

• Feudalism: form of government that stresses the ties of mutual aid between kings and nobles.

• Feudal relationships were like a pyramid King, Nobles/Lords, Knights, Peasants.

How Feudalism Works• Kings turned to nobles and granted them fiefs

–Fief: land or estate with peasants• Nobles were then given government powers

over the fiefs• In return, nobles used the income from fiefs to

provide knights/warriors, horses, and battle equipment for the royal army.

• The main idea of Feudalism is that the nobles and the king help each other out; their success is dependent on one another.

Life Under Feudalism• Since there was no central government, warfare occurred

frequently. • To protect themselves, nobles built castles and

implemented the Chivalry Code (knights should be brave, fair, trustworthy, defend Christianity, and treat women courteously)

• Nobles/Lords: Total authority over fief collected rent from peasants, used justice/punishment, and fought anyone trying to take his fief. (Women had no rights)

• Peasants: In return for protection, they farmed the land, paid taxes, and produced food for the nobles.

• Serf: peasants bound to the manor; could only leave with permission

CLOSURE

• What was the main purpose of a castle?• How did all the levels within feudalism

work together?• What rights did the nobles have over the

fiefs? • What is the difference between a

peasant and a serf?