Homage

The public pronouncement of a vassal to his lord where he swore to become ‘his man’, an oath that carried a promise of loyalty. The homage ceremony, accomplished by placing the vassal’s hands into that of the lord. In exchange, the lord pledged to protect and defend the vassal. The ceremony was distinct from, but often a part of, a fealty oath , wherein the vassal pledged to do a specified service in exchange for the land of fief . Both were highly personal and powerful oaths, which were meant to bind lord and vassal together.
- 15th century royal oath of homage (1365-1480)