Marx suggests that each class society in history has its own type of economic base and its own superstructure of institutions, shaped by the economic base. Below is a list of some of the characteristics of feudal society.

You should consider how each part of the superstructure is particularly suited to economic production in such a land-based society.

Institution Characteristics
Family Large families with many children. Children work from a young age.
Laws Many laws about rights to grazing, hunting, movement, bearing arms. Nobility and serfs have different rights
Education No education for serfs. Work skills learned from family. Some nobility have limited education; a few, mainly clergy, have extensive education.
Stratification Mobility from one class or status to another is very limited, almost none.
Politics Power held by the nobles. No democracy. Power based mainly on military strength. Church has its own laws and courts.