Question

Почему вассальные отношения в средние века предпочитали оформлять не письменными договорами с подписями и печатями, а петуальными действия?

Answer 1

Потому что, это было в начале средневековья, когда письменность была слабо развита и у каждого народа были свои обычаи и решения споров.

Answer 2

Vassalage in the Middle Ages

In the Middle Ages, vassalage was a system of feudal relationships between lords and vassals. Vassals pledged their loyalty and military service to their lords in exchange for protection and land. These relationships were often established through a ceremony known as "homage," where the vassal would kneel before the lord and swear an oath of fealty.

Oral Agreements in Vassalage

During the Middle Ages, vassalage relationships were primarily established through oral agreements rather than written contracts. There are several reasons why oral agreements were preferred over written contracts with signatures and seals:

1. Cultural Context: In the medieval period, literacy rates were relatively low, and the ability to read and write was limited to a small elite. The majority of people, including vassals, were illiterate. As a result, oral agreements were more practical and accessible for most individuals.

2. Trust and Personal Relationships: Vassalage was not just a legal contract but also a personal relationship based on trust and loyalty. The ceremony of homage, where the vassal pledged their loyalty to the lord, was a symbolic act that reinforced the personal bond between them. Oral agreements allowed for direct communication and the establishment of personal connections, which were considered essential in the feudal system.

3. Flexibility and Adaptability: The feudal system was characterized by its flexibility and adaptability to local circumstances. Oral agreements allowed for negotiation and adjustment of terms based on specific situations and changing conditions. This flexibility was crucial in a society where power dynamics and territorial boundaries were constantly shifting.

4. Enforcement through Reputation: In the absence of written contracts, the reputation and honor of individuals played a significant role in enforcing agreements. Breaking an oath or failing to fulfill obligations could result in social ostracism and loss of reputation. The fear of damaging one's reputation served as a powerful deterrent against reneging on agreements.

5. Symbolic Gestures: Medieval society placed great importance on symbolic gestures and rituals. The ceremony of homage, with its physical acts of kneeling and swearing an oath, was seen as a powerful symbol of loyalty and commitment. These symbolic gestures were considered more meaningful and binding than written contracts.

Conclusion

In summary, vassalage relationships in the Middle Ages were often established through oral agreements rather than written contracts. This was due to the cultural context, the emphasis on personal relationships and trust, the flexibility of the feudal system, the reliance on reputation for enforcement, and the significance of symbolic gestures. These factors made oral agreements more practical and effective in the feudal society of the time.