Final answer:
Power and social class in medieval Europe had a profound impact on people's lives. The feudal system created a rigid social hierarchy, with the nobility holding power and wealth, and the peasants living in servitude. However, the rise of the merchant class and the weakening of feudalism provided opportunities for social mobility.
Step-by-step explanation:
The impact of power and social class on life in medieval Europe was significant. The feudal system, which was based on land ownership, created a rigid social hierarchy where the nobility held great power and wealth, while the peasants lived in servitude and had little income. However, the rise of the merchant class and the weakening of feudalism brought changes to the social structure, providing opportunities for social mobility. The Industrial Revolution further disrupted the traditional social classes and allowed for new means of wealth and social status.