Medieval Times The Medieval age was dominated by Feudalism and the Catholic Church. Feudalism is the idea that the King grants land to the Nobles. The Nobles had serfs (peasants) work the land and pay the king with what was produced on the land. Knights worked for the Nobles as a source of protection. Kind of like a neighborhood army to protect the manor. When the King went to war with another King - he got all the Knights from his Nobles to help him in battle. There was a strict social order - with the poor serfs (peasants) on the bottom. Since the serfs had very little to look forward to during their life - they placed a great emphasis on religion - which promised them a great life in heaven. The Catholic Church was very important during this time - it provided order and unity (This is a common Regents Question!) Knights were bound by the code of chivalry - they had to be nice to the ladies and act with honor and dignity. Sample Regents Questions: 1) “All things were under its domain...its power was such that no one could hope to escape its scrutiny.” Which European institution during the Middle Ages is best described by this statement? 1.  the Guild 2.  Knighthood 3.  the Church 4.  the nation-state 2) Feudal societies are generally characterized by 1.  an emphasis on social order 2.  a representative government 3.  many economic opportunities 4.  the protection of political rights Answers: 1) - 3 2) - 1