From the pages of a classic literary work, Beowulf, we have an intimate glimpse into the lives of pre-feudal Europeans and some cool fodder for fantasy world-building…

After defeating the terrible monster, Grendel, and Grendel’s demonic mother, Beowulf returned to his homeland, where he was given a real hero’s welcome.

What is interesting about Beowulf’s return is a small detail, often overlooked by most readers that highlights the important relationships pre-feudal kings had with their retainers. Moreover, the socio-political and economic bonds that build these relationships are key to understanding pre-feudal and feudal societies in Europe.

Kings of the pre-feudal and feudal eras had a very different role than those absolute, divine right monarchs of the early modern period. They were like a CEO of a corporation. Yes, they had titles and some powers, but their power was not like those wacky early modern monarchs we know about from history. These men gained honor and status as leaders by being able to support as many retainers as was humanly possible. Retainers would join their kings, or, really, warlords, in battle, in drink, and in special meals as his guests. The king’s largess provided gifts to his retainers, giving them status and positions within the group of retainers. Special status might be given to a retainer the king or warlord favored. This special status was expressed in several interesting ways. Expensive gives, having a close seat to the king or warlord, and so on, showed a retainer’s status within this pre-modern society.

What would we call this relationship?