(tane the four social classes of feudalism in order from top to bottom in the pyramid to the right.

At the top of the feudal system was the king, who granted land to the nobles in exchange for loyalty and military service. Below the king were the nobles or lords, who governed their own lands and provided protection to the vassals in return for their service. Next came the knights, skilled warriors who swore fealty to the lords and defended the realm. At the base of the pyramid were the peasants, or serfs, who worked the land and provided the agricultural produce needed to sustain the entire system. While feudalism was a complicated hierarchy, it essentially stemmed from the need for protection during the turbulent Middle Ages. As powerful lords gained control over land, they relied on a system of loyalty and service, which defined societal roles and established wealth distribution. This interdependency ensured that everyone knew their place—whether the kings enjoyed the lavish life of the high court or the peasants toiled in the fields for a meager living.