Class 11 History Project
Topic: The Three Orders
Submitted by: Tushar Rajput
Submitted to: Mrs. Anita Sharma
Session: 2025–26
Subject: History (Class XI)
Acknowledgement
I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to my History teacher, Mrs. Anita Sharma, for her
constant guidance and support in completing this project on ‘The Three Orders’. I also thank my
parents and friends for their help and encouragement.
Introduction
The term ‘Three Orders’ refers to the social structure of medieval Europe. Society was divided into
three main classes – the Clergy (those who prayed), the Nobility (those who fought), and the
Peasantry (those who worked). This system reflected the feudal order that existed in Europe
between the 9th and 15th centuries.
1. The Clergy
The Clergy was a group of people who performed religious duties in the church. They guided
spiritual life and played a central role in education, charity, and administration. The church collected
taxes from peasants and owned vast lands. Bishops and priests were very powerful in medieval
society.
2. The Nobility
The Nobles were warriors and landowners. They provided protection to the people and managed
large estates called manors. In return for land granted by the king, they promised loyalty and
military service. Feudal lords held great political power in their regions.
3. The Peasantry
Peasants were the largest class in society. They worked on the land owned by the nobles and the
church. Most peasants were serfs who had to give a part of their produce to the lords. They lived
simple lives and had very few rights, but their hard work sustained the feudal economy.
Decline of the Feudal System
By the 14th century, the feudal system started to decline. The rise of towns, trade, and the use of
money weakened feudal relationships. The Black Death reduced population and labor, giving
peasants more freedom. Kings gained more power and centralized their rule.
Conclusion
The Three Orders played a vital role in shaping medieval European society. The Clergy maintained
religion, the Nobility defended the land, and the Peasantry supported the economy. Understanding
these orders helps us learn how social structures influenced history and the development of
modern Europe.
Bibliography
1. NCERT History Book – Class XI (Themes in World History)
2. Reference: Medieval Europe – Feudalism and Society
3. Internet sources: Wikipedia, Britannica, and Study.com
