Medieval Terms and Concepts

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Hue and Cry

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A public outcry or alarm raised to catch a criminal in medieval times.

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Murdrum Law

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A law that imposed a fine on a community if a Norman was found murdered and the killer was not produced.

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Tithe

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A one-tenth part of something, paid as a contribution to a religious organization or compulsory tax to government.

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Monastery

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A building or complex where monks live and work.

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Convent

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A community of nuns living together under religious vows.

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Bubonic Plague (Black Death)

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A deadly infectious disease that caused widespread fatalities in the 14th century.

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Pestilence

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A fatal epidemic disease, especially bubonic plague.

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Buboes

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Swollen lymph nodes, a symptom of the bubonic plague.

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Flagellants

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People who whipped themselves to atone for sins, especially during the Black Death.

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Feudalism

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A medieval European social system in which land was owned by lords who allowed vassals to farm it in exchange for military service.