What weakness in the feudal system does John of toul's pledge show?

Answer 1

John of Toul's pledge highlights a critical weakness in the feudal system: the reliance on personal loyalty and vassalage. This system often led to fragmentation of power, as lords could not always control their vassals, resulting in conflicts and instability. Additionally, the pledge underscores the potential for individual ambition to disrupt feudal allegiances, revealing how personal commitments could undermine the broader social order. Ultimately, it illustrates the fragility of a system dependent on personal bonds rather than centralized authority.