The Middle Ages or Medieval Period in European history was a difficult time for most people. We, as historians, have the luxury of looking back with great curiosity and interest as we examine the political system, social structure, and daily life of citizens. It was often a bleak and violent time, but it has also been romanticized in popular culture (King Arthur, Robin Hood, chivalry, etc.) through poetry, stories, legends, songs and film. Add the superstitious element (dragons, wizards, witches, etc.) to Medieval peoples' belief systems and you have a wildly fascinating period of history to study.
The Medieval Lord/Lady Project
As we study Chapter 14: Europe in the Middle Ages, you will develop a greater understanding of the cause/effect relationships that formed this period. This individual project will consist of THREE parts, a map, a coat of arms and an original piece of historical fiction.
1. The Map
You are a prominent Medieval Lord or Lady. Your king has awarded you a manor (a large estate that includes farms, pastures, and an entire village). Use what you know about a typical Medieval manor from the text book and independent research to create a map of your manor. Your map should included the large manor house in which you live, the farms, livestock areas, church, village, houses for peasants and serfs, and any additional things essential to a functioning manor. Your map should have a title, compass, symbols and a key. This will be completed in your T.P. journal (SEE RUBRIC FOR EXACT DETAILS FOR ASSESSMENT).
2. The Coat of Arms
A coat of arms was originally used by feudal lords or knights on the battlefield as a way to distinguish themselves from enemy soldiers. Later, it became a tradition for other social classes such as noble people, religious leaders, peasants for use as a sort of family seal. Today, coat of arms can be found all over the world and used by individuals, families, countries, corporations, etc. Ultimately, it is simply a way to advertise what makes you unique or to celebrate history or tradition.
You will create a coat of arms for your own Medieval noble family. It should reflect your personal attributes and values that your family holds dear. It should, of course be an original design, include a traditional shield and should include a motto. Take a look at a variety of examples from the Medieval period for ideas. This will be completed in your T.P. journal (SEE RUBRIC FOR EXACT DETAILS FOR ASSESSMENT).
3. Original Historical Fiction
You need to write a fictional account of your experience as a Medieval lord or lady and how you manage your manor. Be creative. Create interesting names, places and events, but the context should be historically accurate. There is no length requirement. This will be completed in your T.P. journal (SEE RUBRIC FOR EXACT DETAILS FOR ASSESSMENT).
ASSIGNMENT DUE DATE: To be determined (NOT BEFORE MAY 11)
Assessment Rubric (50 points total)
Map
1 point _____ Title
1 point _____ Key
1 point _____ Symbols
1 point _____ Compass
2 points _____ Manor House
2 points _____ Farm Fields
2 points _____ Livestock Area
2 points _____ Village (including peasant/serf homes)
2 points _____ Two additional elements of your choice
Coat of Arms
2 points _____ Shield
2 points _____ Motto
2 points _____ Symbolic attribute #1
2 points _____ Symbolic attribute #2
2 points _____ Use of color
Original Historical Fiction
You must mention the following items in your story.
2 points _____ A brief family history (two details)
2 points _____ The king you serve (two details)
4 points _____ Describe how your manor system operates (four details)
2 points _____ The Church (two details)
1 point _____ Charlemagne
2 points _____ A guild (two details)
2 points _____ The middle class (two details)
1 point _____ Chivalry
2 points _____ The Crusades (two details)
2 points _____ Overcrowding and disease
2 points _____ The Magna Carta (two details)
2 points _____ Joan of Arc
2 points _____ Two Superstitious elements (dragons, magic, witches, etc.)
Ask for clarification if you have any questions. Take your time and enjoy this project!
