Arriere Fief or Fee: A type of feudal land tenure in which a vassal holds a fief or fee from a lord who is himself a vassal of a higher lord. The arriere fief or fee is thus a sub-fief or sub-fee, and the vassal who holds it owes feudal obligations to both his immediate lord and the higher lord. This type of land tenure was common in mediaeval Europe, particularly in France, and was often used as a means of dividing large estates among multiple vassals.
Arriere Fief, also known as Arriere Fee, is a legal term used in feudal law to refer to a subinfeudation, which is the granting of a portion of a fief or fee to a vassal by a lord. In this arrangement, the vassal becomes a sub-tenant of the lord and is responsible for providing certain services or payments in return for the use of the land.
The concept of Arriere Fief emerged during the mediaeval period, when feudalism was prevalent. It allowed lords to further divide their land and delegate some of their rights and obligations to vassals. The vassal, in turn, would owe certain duties to the lord, such as military service, financial payments, or other forms of assistance.
Arriere Fief was often granted for a limited period or for the lifetime of the vassal. The vassal would typically hold the land as a hereditary possession and could pass it on to their heirs, subject to the terms and conditions set by the lord.
However, the practice of Arriere Fief gradually declined as central authority strengthened and feudalism gave way to more centralised forms of governance. Many jurisdictions enacted laws to restrict or abolish subinfeudation, as it was seen as a potential threat to the authority of the ruling power.
Today, Arriere Fief is primarily of historical interest and has limited legal relevance. It serves as a reminder of the feudal system and the complex relationships between lords and vassals during that era.
1. What is Arriere Fief Or Fee?
Arriere Fief Or Fee is a legal term that refers to a feudal estate or fee that is granted to a vassal by a lord.
2. How is Arriere Fief Or Fee different from a regular fief or fee?
Arriere Fief Or Fee is a term used to describe a feudal estate or fee that is granted to a vassal in addition to their regular fief or fee. It is typically given as a reward for loyal service or as a means of providing additional income to the vassal.
3. What are the responsibilities of a vassal who holds an Arriere Fief Or Fee?
The responsibilities of a vassal who holds an Arriere Fief Or Fee are similar to those of a vassal who holds a regular fief or fee. They are expected to provide military service, financial support, and other forms of assistance to their lord in exchange for the land they have been granted.
4. How is the inheritance of an Arriere Fief Or Fee determined?
The inheritance of an Arriere Fief Or Fee is typically determined by the terms of the original grant from the lord. In some cases, the Arriere Fief Or Fee may be passed down to the vassal’s heirs, while in other cases it may revert back to the lord upon the vassal’s death.
5. Can an Arriere Fief Or Fee be sold or transferred to another vassal?
The ability to sell or transfer an Arriere Fief Or Fee is also determined by the terms of the original grant from the lord. In some cases, the vassal may have the right to sell or transfer the land, while in other cases it may be prohibited.
6. What is the significance of Arriere Fief Or Fee in feudal society?
Arriere Fief Or Fee was an important aspect of feudal society as it allowed lords to reward loyal vassals and provide them with additional income and resources. It also helped to strengthen the bond between lord and vassal, as the vassal was given a stake in the success and prosperity of the lord’s estate.
This site contains general legal information but does not constitute professional legal advice for your particular situation. Persuing this glossary does not create an attorney-client or legal adviser relationship. If you have specific questions, please consult a qualified attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.
This glossary post was last updated: 11th April 2024.
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