Re: Heortling social structure and wergeld confusion

From: valkoharja <rintasaa_at_nL5BtB2P-eqLcKsWU1sTQcM3RC6TXC5_YS-UXYWkwyZR6B072s3t0KcqIpHPYr2Y628>
Date: Mon, 23 Apr 2007 19:40:00 -0000

wrote: <snip>
> I think a key thing here is that in Heortling culture things have to
> be viewed as a choice. I agree to give 20 cows to my chief each year
> because it is the right thing to do and because I support the clan and
> because it is a matter of pride that my herds are big enough to
> support this level of donation. I don't do it because my chief tells
> me I must. After all "Nobody can make you do anything." And if a
> chief from another bloodline gets too grasping, my bloodline can
> always leave the clan, taking our people and wealth with us (and
> hopefully our land--but violence is likely to be an option as soon as
> the bonds of clan are severed and it would no longer be kinstrife).
>
> --Bryan

I agree. The difference is in the terminology and the attitudes in my opinion. A feodalistic westernes would see what I described, where a proper orlanthi carl would be affronted by the westerners allegations.

As opposed to true feodalism, there are also key differences. The positions of the chiefs, kings and thanes aren't hereditary. They are dependant on the favour of the carls (and to a lesser extent the cottars) of the bloodlines and whole clans. A thane that gets too greedy will be replaced.

The basic mechanics or warrior nobles are still there, though the oppression is less and the guys at the top are not nearly as rich as those in a true feodalism.

  ***

What do you guys think about the social position and wergeld. How useful is it to be a child or a hearth companion of a thane or a chief? How much does your social rank matter if you are far from home?

  -Adept