anglo saxon society

• anglo saxons

  before the normans invaded the saxons were dominant
• What are the key features of Anglo-Saxon society?

  • Hierarchical structure: King, Earls, Thegns, Peasants, Slaves
  • King held the most power and influence
  • Earls were important lords assisting the king
  • Thegns were chief advisors to the king
  • Peasants farmed land and served the king
  • Slaves and bondmen performed labor tasks
• What was the role of the king in Anglo-Saxon society?

  The king controlled the land and economy
• What was the role of earls in Anglo-Saxon society?

  They assisted the king and managed lands
• Who were the Thegns in Anglo-Saxon society?

  Chief advisors to the king
• What was the primary occupation of most peasants in Anglo-Saxon society?

  Farming land for the king
• What was the significance of towns in Anglo-Saxon society?

  They were centers of trade and production
• What percentage of land did the Church own in Anglo-Saxon society?

  25%
• What was Harold Godwinson known for?

  Crushing rebellions in Wales
• Who was Tostig?

  Harold Godwinson's brother
• What are the characteristics of Anglo-Saxon society's legal system?

  • Clear and offensive legal system
  • Deals with injury or theft
  • Vital legal trust system
  • Importance of community involvement
• What were the economic activities in Anglo-Saxon towns?

  • Farming for personal needs
  • Production of pottery and crafts
  • Trade of goods for money
  • Sending surplus to the king
• What were the social classes in Anglo-Saxon society?

  • King
  • Earls
  • Thegns
  • Peasants/Free men
  • Slaves and bondmen
• What were the key events leading to the desire for the English throne after Edward the Confessor's death?

  • Edward's death created a power vacuum
  • Various claimants sought the throne
  • Harold Godwinson's rise to power
  • Tostig's influence and recommendations