Prelims 2015 · Medieval History · Question 55
With reference to Indian history, which of the following is/are the essential element/elements of the feudal system?<br/>1. A very strong centralized political authority and a very weak provincial or local political authority<br/>2. Emergence of administrative structure based on control and possession of land<br/>3. Creation of lord-vassal relationship between the feudal lord and his overlord<br/><br/>Select the correct answer using the code given below.
Answer
2 and 3 only
1. Strong centralized authority and weak local authority — Incorrect. Feudalism is marked by the weakening of central authority and the rise of powerful local/provincial lords.
2. Administrative structure based on control and possession of land — Correct. In a feudal system, political and administrative power is closely tied to land grants and control over land.
3. Lord-vassal relationship between the feudal lord and his overlord — Correct. A key feature of feudalism is the hierarchical bond of loyalty and service between vassal and overlord.
Hence, statements 2 and 3 only are correct.