Setting the Stage

Setting the Stage • In the middle ages nobles constantly fought each other • Through warfare they seized new territories, and increased their wealth

Saddles and Stirrups • Saddles and Stirrups changed the technology of warfare during the 700’s

Knights • Mounted knights became the most important part of an army

Warriors on Horseback • In the 700’s Charles Martel had observed that the Muslim cavalry had often turned the tide of battles

A Warriors Role • To defend their lands lords sought the services of knights

A Warriors Role • A knights main obligation was to serve in battle • A lord typically demanded 40 days of mounted combat each year

Chivalry • By the 1100’s the code of chivalry demanded new obligations from knights • He was expected to serve in defense of three masters

Chivalry • Those knights who disregarded the code of chivalry face public shame • First his armor was stripped off • And his sword broken over his head

Reality of Warfare • By the 1100’s stone castes were encircled by massive guard towers

Reality of Warfare • Defenders of a castle would pour boiling water, hot oil, or molten lead on enemy soldiers

Roles of Women • The Church viewed women as inferior to men • As feudalism arose the status of women declined

Women in Power • These women were the wives of lords

Setting the Stage