liege's tenant crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
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Solutions for "liege's tenant crossword clue" by Letter Count
6 Letters
VASSAL: A person who held land from a feudal lord and received protection in return for homage and allegiance.
9 Letters
FEUDATORY: One who holds a feud, or fief; a vassal; a feudal tenant.
More About "liege's tenant crossword clue"
The clue "liege's tenant" transports us directly into the heart of the feudal system, a socio-political structure prevalent in medieval Europe. A "liege" refers to a feudal lord to whom allegiance and service are owed, typically by a "tenant" or vassal. This relationship formed the backbone of society, where land (a fief) was granted by the lord in exchange for military service, loyalty, and other forms of support from the tenant.
Understanding this historical context is crucial for solving such crossword clues. The terms 'liege' and 'tenant' in this specific context are not referring to a modern landlord-renter relationship, but rather a deeply ingrained system of reciprocal obligations within the medieval hierarchy. Crossword constructors often draw upon historical vocabulary to add layers of complexity and challenge, requiring solvers to have a broad general knowledge.
The answers like VASSAL or FEUDATORY perfectly encapsulate the role of the tenant in this feudal arrangement. They were not mere residents but individuals bound by a formal oath of homage and fealty, providing military aid or other services to their liege lord, making them a common feature in historical and literary-themed puzzles.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider the Historical Context: For clues that sound archaic or refer to old systems (like 'liege's tenant'), think about the historical period they evoke. Words from medieval times, ancient civilizations, or specific historical events are common.
- Check Surrounding Letters: If you have a few letters filled in from intersecting words, use them to narrow down possibilities. For a clue like this, if you have 'V_SS_L', the answer 'VASSAL' becomes much clearer.
- Think About Synonyms and Related Terms: Brainstorm words that are directly related to the concept. For 'liege's tenant', think of other words for a subordinate in a feudal system. Sometimes the answer is a less common synonym you hadn't considered.
- Don't Be Afraid to Learn: Crosswords are a fantastic way to expand your vocabulary and general knowledge. If you encounter a term you don't know, look it up after the puzzle is done. This will help you tackle similar clues in the future.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a liege?
A liege is a feudal lord to whom allegiance and service are due. In the context of medieval Europe, a liege was a sovereign or superior lord to whom a vassal owed loyalty and military service.
What is the difference between a vassal and a liege?
A liege is the lord or sovereign who grants land or protection, while a vassal is the person who receives that land or protection and, in return, owes service, loyalty, and homage to the liege. Essentially, the liege is the grantor, and the vassal is the recipient in the feudal relationship.
How do I identify historical clues like 'liege's tenant' in crosswords?
To identify historical clues, look for words indicating antiquity, medieval times, or specific historical periods. Clues might use archaic language (like 'liege' or 'fief'), direct references to historical systems (like feudalism), or names of historical figures and events. Understanding common historical terms and relationships is key.