Who is referred to as a vassal in the feudal system?

In the feudal system, a vassal is specifically defined as a lesser lord or noble who has entered into a mutual agreement with a more powerful lord. This relationship is characterized by the granting of land, known as a fief, in exchange for loyalty, military service, and other obligations. The essence of vassalage lies in this binding commitment, which established a hierarchical structure where vassals were granted rights to their land while also being expected to support their overlord.

This relationship was foundational to the organization of medieval society, as it provided a framework for social and political interactions among the nobility. The vassal would pledge loyalty and provide military aid, receiving protection and the use of land in return. This mutual benefit reinforced the ties between different levels of nobility within the feudal hierarchy.

The other choices represent different aspects of society but do not align with the definition of a vassal. A lord holding ultimate power refers to the overlord rather than the vassal, a peasant working on land would typically be a serf with no land rights or formal allegiance, and a tradesperson within a guild pertains to the structure of a developing urban economy rather than the feudal system itself.