#A92

(3)
Lords were the ruler of lands which were called a fief. These lands were granted by
higher lords or the king in exchange for loyalty, military service, and taxes. Lords granted
their lands to local lords who were called vassals. They fought and protected these lands
from invasion for their king.
Peasants generally lived in one-room homes that were constructed of stone or branches
covered with mud and the roofs were thatched. They lived in the country in their lord’s
manor. They were the poorest people of the medieval era and were mainly farmers. They
paid rents or taxes to the local lords in exchange for lands to farm.
Clerics were the members of the clergy who were the religious people of the feudal era.
They were the priests and monks who worked for the church. The head of the church
(Pope) had great influence over the king. Their duty was to pray for the salvation of the
people.