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How did Viking society differ from Feudalism?

Taina Lerego

Well, first of all, Viking society and Feudalism were different in many ways. The Vikings were mostly known for raiding and conquering other lands, while Feudalism was a system of social hierarchy and land tenure that existed in Europe during the Middle Ages.

One of the main differences between Viking society and Feudalism was their political structure. Vikings were ruled by chieftains, who were elected by the people based on their leadership abilities and achievements. In Feudalism, there was a clear hierarchy of power, with the king at the top, followed by lords and vassals.

Another difference was their economic system. Vikings relied on a combination of farming, hunting, and trading, while Feudalism was based on land ownership and the feudal obligation of service to the lord. In Viking society, wealth and property were more evenly distributed, whereas in Feudalism, the majority of the land was owned by a small group of elites.

The role of women was also different in Viking society compared to Feudalism. Viking women had more rights and freedoms, and could own property and inherit from their families. They were also involved in trade and could participate in battle. In Feudalism, women were restricted to domestic roles and had little legal rights.

Another key difference between the two societies was their religious beliefs. Vikings were pagan, worshipping Norse gods such as Odin, Thor, and Freya. Feudalism was largely Christian, with the Catholic Church playing a significant role in politics and society.

Lastly, their approaches to warfare were different. Vikings were known for their brutal raiding and pillaging, while Feudalism relied on a system of knights and armies to defend the land. Vikings were fierce warriors, known for their battle tactics and use of weapons such as axes and spears, while Feudalism emphasized chivalry and honor in combat.

In conclusion, Viking society and Feudalism were vastly different in terms of their political, economic, social, religious, and military structures. While they both existed during the same time period, their approaches to governance and way of life were distinct and unique.