Scutage, a payment made by barons to the king in medieval times, was introduced by Henry II in the 12th century as an alternative to providing knights for the king’s army. It later became a tax on knights’ estates and was known as escuage, primarily in England. King John imposed frequent and heavy scutages, but Magna Carta prohibited the levying of scutage without the consent of a general council. By the 14th century, scutage had become obsolete.
Scutage, a term derived from the Latin word “scutum” meaning “shield,” refers to a monetary payment made by barons to the king instead of providing knights for military service. King Henry II introduced scutage in the 12th century and imposed it five times within the first 11 years of his reign. Barons who were obligated to supply knights could opt to pay scutage to the king instead. Additionally, scutage was also paid by tenant-in-chiefs as a substitute for serving in a war. This payment acted as a tax on a knight’s estate to support the army. In England, scutage evolved into a standardized tax on knights’ estates by the thirteenth century. For instance, if a baron was required to provide ten knights but only provided five, they could pay scutage for the remaining five knights. Similarly, a tenant-in-chief who couldn’t serve in a war could pay scutage instead. Although scutage became obsolete by the fourteenth century, it played a significant role in medieval feudal law and the development of taxation in England.
Scutage is a medieval term referring to a payment made by a knight or noble to their lord in lieu of military service.
No, scutage is an outdated concept and is not practiced in modern legal systems.
No, scutage is not enforceable in court as it is not recognized as a valid legal obligation.
No, since scutage is not legally binding, there are no legal consequences for not paying it.
While it is possible to include scutage in a contract or agreement, it would not hold any legal weight and would not be enforceable.
No, scutage cannot be inherited or passed down as it is not a legally recognized obligation.
Yes, if both parties agree, scutage can be voluntarily paid as a gesture of goodwill, but it is not legally required.
Yes, scutage was commonly used during the medieval period when knights and nobles would pay their lords instead of serving in military campaigns.
The amount of scutage was typically determined by the lord and could vary depending on the specific circumstances and the financial capabilities of the knight or noble.
No, there are no direct modern equivalents to scutage as the concept of paying in lieu of military service is no longer practiced.
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This glossary post was last updated: 17th April 2024.
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