Discover published sets by community

A local legal system in feudal times where the local lord or his steward presided over disputes among those living on his land. Examples include issues of land tenure, peasant duties, and minor criminal offenses.

A medieval practice of determining guilt under feudal law where the accused would undergo a painful or dangerous test. If they survived or healed properly, they were deemed innocent. Examples: ordeal by fire (carrying a hot iron), ordeal by water (floating in water).

A feudal oath of loyalty and service where a vassal swears allegiance to a lord. In return, the lord provides protection and a fief to the vassal. For example, a knight swearing fealty to a nobleman in exchange for land.

A condition in medieval Europe where peasants were tied to the land they worked on and subject to the will of the landowner. Serfs were required to work the land and could not leave without permission. They also had limited personal rights.

Written orders or letters issued by a monarch or other authority to enforce a law or judgement. Examples include writs of summons to court or writs ordering the enforcement of a debt.

A medieval practice where the holder of a fief was granted land or revenues in return for military or other service. This includes the granting of church lands to knights or nobles in exchange for protection.