Step-by-step explanation:
In both the feudal systems of Europe and Japan, lesser nobles, known as vassals or retainers, provided various forms of service and obligations to their lords or feudal overlords in exchange for grants of land. These obligations were part of the feudal contract or agreement between the two parties.
In Europe, the feudal system was characterized by a hierarchical structure. The king granted large tracts of land, known as fiefs, to powerful lords or nobles in exchange for their loyalty, military service, and counsel. These lords, in turn, granted smaller portions of land to lesser nobles, knights, or vassals. The vassals had several obligations towards their lords, including:
1. Military Service: Vassals were required to provide a specified number of knights or soldiers to serve in the lord's army during times of war or conflict. This service was typically for a specific duration, such as 40 days per year, and the vassals were expected to equip and maintain their own contingent.
2. Counsel and Advice: Vassals were expected to provide counsel and advice to their lords on matters of governance, administration, and legal disputes. They were often part of the lord's court and had a role in decision-making processes.
3. Financial Payments: Vassals were sometimes required to make financial payments to their lords on specific occasions, such as the marriage of the lord's daughter or the knighting of his son. These payments were known as "reliefs" or "aid," and their nature varied depending on the specific feudal customs and agreements.
4. Attendance at the Lord's Court: Vassals were expected to attend the lord's court, which served as a center of administration and justice. They would participate in judicial proceedings, contribute to the maintenance of law and order, and assist in the lord's governance.
In feudal Japan, a similar system called the "shoen system" existed. The emperor or shogun granted large estates called shoen to daimyo (powerful landowners) in exchange for their loyalty and military service. The daimyo, in turn, granted smaller portions of land to their vassals, known as samurai. The obligations of the samurai towards their lords included:
1. Military Service: Samurai were obliged to provide military service to their lords, participating in battles, defending the lord's land, and maintaining peace and order within their assigned territories.
2. Loyalty and Oaths of Fealty: Samurai were expected to pledge their loyalty and allegiance to their lords through oaths of fealty. They were bound by duty to protect and serve their lord, following their orders and commands.
3. Financial Payments and Tribute: Samurai were required to make regular financial contributions or payments to their lords. These payments could take the form of taxes, a portion of the agricultural produce, or other resources produced within the samurai's land.
4. Administrative Duties: Samurai were responsible for the administration and governance of their assigned territories. They collected taxes, settled disputes, maintained law and order, and ensured the smooth functioning of the local community.
It is important to note that the specifics of feudal obligations varied across regions, time periods, and individual agreements between lords and vassals. The feudal systems in Europe and Japan were complex and evolved over time, adapting to specific cultural, political, and economic conditions.