MANORIAL ROLL Meaning and
Definition
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A manorial roll refers to a document or record that contains detailed information about the ownership, tenancy, and obligations associated with a manor or manorial estate. It is an essential source of historical data used for studying the social, economic, and legal aspects of the feudal system that prevailed in medieval Europe.
The manorial roll typically lists the names of landowners, tenants, and individuals holding certain positions of authority within the manor, such as the lord of the manor or the steward. It provides a comprehensive record of land holdings within the manor, including descriptions of the lands and their boundaries. The roll often includes information about the type and quantity of labor services that tenants were obligated to provide to the lord, as well as any rents or fees that were due.
In addition, the manorial roll may contain information about legal disputes, agreements, and transactions related to the manor. It records events such as the transfer of land or the granting of privileges and rights. The roll can also provide insights into the economic activities of the manor, including details about farming practices, livestock, or the presence of mills and fisheries.
Scholars, genealogists, and historians widely use manorial rolls as primary sources of information for reconstructing the social and economic development of medieval manors and understanding the lives and relationships of the people who lived within them.
Etymology of MANORIAL ROLL
The term "manorial roll" consists of two elements: "manorial" and "roll".1. Manorial: The word "manorial" is derived from the Old English word "maner", which refers to a manor or landed estate. It ultimately traces back to the Latin word "manēre", meaning "to remain" or "to stay". A manor was a self-sufficient estate during the medieval period, typically owned by a lord or nobleman. The term "manorial" pertains to anything related to the manor or its administration.2. Roll: The word "roll" has ancient origins. It comes from the Old French noun "rolle", which derived from the Latin word "rotula", meaning "small wheel" or "roll". In the context of documents, "roll" refers to a list or register of names or accounts, often written on a rolled-up scroll of parchment.
