The+Life+of+a+Serf



**__ The Life of a Serf __**

** Directions: ** Read the following information about the life of a serf and use it make inferences answering the questions below.

Feudalism developed during the Middle Ages in Western Europe. Under feudalism, land-owning lords allowed peasants called **serfs** to live on their land. Lords promised to protect the serfs from war, and serfs promised to work for the lord.

The life of a medieval serf was very difficult, and most did not live past the age of 35. Serfs farmed the lord’s land and did other work such as repairing roads and fences. In return for service provided by peasants, the lord provided them with the use of several acres of land to farm.

Serfs were not slaves but could not leave the manor without permission. Many did not want to leave the manor, however, due to frequent wars. If they did not work, they were punished. If the manor land was sold or reassigned to a new owner, the serfs stayed with the land. Serfs had many jobs on the manor including craftsmen, bakers, farmers, and tax collectors - serfs did all kinds of jobs. Their job was assigned. They had to do the job they were assigned to do. There were few if any educational opportunities for serfs, and most did not know how to read.

The Catholic Church offered serfs hope for a better life after death. The Church taught that followers would go to Heaven if they lived a good life and followed the rules of the Church. For serfs, everyday life was closely tied to local priests and the village church.

The only time serfs had a chance to relax and enjoy each other's company was at a church festival. Festivals offered stage plays, which were religious in nature, along with archery contests, wrestling, dancing, and singing. Often there were jugglers and magicians. Festivals were held often. Payment for the festivals was the responsible of the lord of the manor. The lord paid for the festivals by giving the church food and clothing the peasants had made.

Prentice Hall Brief Review Global History and Geography []

1. How might the serfs feel about the lord? Why?

2. Why would the serfs be willing to stay on the manor despite harsh conditions?

3. How might the serfs feel about giving so much of what they produce to the lord?

4. What are some things that a serf might so on a typical day?

5. What are some things a serf would do for fun?