* Held large estates and were responsible for providing military service to the king.
* Served as judges and administrators in the local government.
* Participated in the Great Council, which advised the king on important matters of state.
* Often led rebellions against the king when they felt their rights were being violated.
Knights
* Served as the professional soldiers of the Middle Ages.
* Fought in tournaments and battles.
* Protected the lord's lands and people.
* Were often granted land in exchange for their military service.
* Could rise to the rank of baron or even higher if they proved themselves to be particularly brave and skilled.
In addition to their military duties, barons and knights also played an important role in the social and cultural life of the Middle Ages. They were patrons of the arts, built castles and churches, and hosted feasts and other events that brought people together.