NCERT Solutions for Class 11 History - The Three Orders

Q1. Describe two features of early feudal society in France.
Ans: Two features of early feudal society in France are:

• Lord's Authority: The lord held a special status, and his orders were absolute. No one could challenge his authority.
• Peasant-Lord Relationship: Society was built on the relationship between lords and peasants. Peasants provided labour in exchange for protection and land.
• Social Hierarchy: Early society was divided into three main groups: priests, nobles, and peasants. The nobility played a dominant role in this structure.

Q2. How did long-term changes in population levels affect economy and society in Europe?
Ans: Long-term changes in population levels significantly impacted the economy and society in Europe:

• Towns emerged as centres of trade and commerce, leading to a more advanced and civilised society.
• Increased agricultural production reached its peak, resulting in better quality goods and a rise in life expectancy.
• As agriculture improved, towns began to grow again, providing peasants with places to sell surplus grain and buy necessary tools.
• The shift towards a cash economy changed the nature of economic transactions, with lords preferring rent in cash rather than services.

Q3. Why did knights become a distinct group, and when did they decline?
Ans: During the ninth century, Europe experienced frequent local wars. This led to a shortage of trained cavalry, creating a demand for skilled horsemen. As a result:

• Knights emerged as a distinct group to meet the needs of localised conflicts.
• They were linked to lords, who provided them with land, known as a fief, in exchange for military service.
• The decline of the knights began in the 15th century as feudal power weakened.

Knights played a crucial role in the feudal system, but changing economic conditions and the rise of new military strategies contributed to their decline.

Q4. What was the function of medieval monasteries?
Ans: The function of medieval monasteries included:

• Encouraging people to donate to religious causes.
• Inspiring service to the sick and needy.
• Promoting the development of art and architecture.
• Encouraging a simple life among the community.

Q5. Imagine and describe a day in the life of a craftsman in a medieval French town.
Ans: A day in the life of a craftsman in a medieval French town was structured and busy. Here are some key aspects:

• Guild Supervision: Craftsmen worked under the guidance of trading guilds, which ensured quality and standards.
• Skilled Work: They were skilled individuals, often specialising in a particular craft.
• Community Role: Craftsmen played a vital role in the local economy, providing goods and services.
• Daily Routine: Their day typically involved crafting, trading, and attending guild meetings.

Q6. Compare the conditions of life for a French serf and a Roman slave.
Ans: French serf:

• Serfs worked on land owned by the lord.
• Most of the produce was given to the lord, leaving serfs with little.
• They could not leave the estate without the lord's permission.
• Serfs were not allowed to marry without the lord's consent.
• They performed unpaid labour services, such as gathering firewood and repairing roads.
• Serfs received no wages for their work.

Roman slave:

• Slaves were considered property and could be bought or sold.
• They had no rights or identity of their own.
• Slaves were forced to work long hours without compensation.
• They were often compelled to have children, who would also become slaves.