Which term describes the medieval European peasantry bound to the land?

• A. Nobles
• B. Merchants
• C. Serfs
• D. Clergy

Answer: (C)

In feudal society, the term that describes peasants bound to the land is serf. Serfs formed the rural backbone of the manor system: they worked the lord’s fields, performed various chores, and paid rents or a portion of their produce in exchange for protection and the right to cultivate a small piece of land for themselves. Their status was usually hereditary, and they could not freely leave the manor or switch lords without permission, making them effectively bound to the land they farmed. This distinguishes them from nobles, who owned and controlled the land; merchants, who operated in towns as traders; and clergy, who served religious roles within the church.