The Aristocracy – Quiz

  1. According to medieval social theory, the primary role of the aristocracy was to provide ___________ to the rest of society.
  2. A noble family’s son would become a(n) ________ in another noble household at age seven and begin learning the rules of courtly behavior.
  3. Give at least three examples of medieval epics that were discussed in the lecture.
  4. Identify at least two tenets of the code of chivalry.
  5. In the feudal system, the grantor of a benefice is called a(n) ________, whereas the recipient is called a(n) _________.
  6. The notion that military action was not to be taken against noncombatants was originally called the ____________.
  7. The practice of subdividing a benefice and parceling out the pieces is called _____________.
  8. True/False: The feudal political structure resulted in a strongly centralized State.
  9. _____________ is the author of De Amore, a widely read treatise on courtly love.

Show answers

  1. physical protection
  2. page
  3. Beowulf, The Song of Roland, El Cid, Lancelot, Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, The Romance of the Rose
  4. prowess, serve the Church, respect women, loyalty to one’s lord
  5. Lord, vassal
  6. Peace of God
  7. subinfeudation
  8. False
  9. Andreas Capellanus