Vavasory is a term derived from medieval English law and refers to the jurisdiction, authority, or privilege granted to a vavasor in feudal society. In the feudal system, a vavasor was a vassal who held a small and intermediary estate, typically between a knight and a baron, in exchange for providing service, loyalty, and military assistance to a higher-ranking lord or noble.
The granting of vavasory conveyed certain rights and responsibilities to the vavasor. This included the ability to administer justice within their domain, collect taxes, and manage the affairs of their estate. The vavasor was also obligated to fulfill various feudal duties, such as providing armed men for the lord's army and attending the lord's court or council when summoned.
The extent of vavasory varied depending on the specific arrangement between the vavasor and their lord, often dictated by a formal agreement or contract. The vavasor would usually hold their land directly from the lord, rendering homage and swearing an oath of fealty.
Vavasory played a significant role in the hierarchical structure of feudal society, acting as a bridge between the lower-ranking knights and the higher-ranking nobles. It served as a means for the lord to extend their influence and control over their domains while delegating certain powers and responsibilities to their vassals.
Today, vavasory is a historical concept that provides insight into the social, legal, and political dynamics of medieval feudalism. Understanding the intricacies of vavasory is crucial for comprehending the nuances of medieval power and governance structures.
