THEOW Meaning and
Definition
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"Theow" is an Old English term that originated during the Anglo-Saxon period in England and served as a designation for a specific social class. It refers to an unfree or enslaved individual who worked as a servant or laborer for a lord or landowner. The word is derived from the Old English term "þeowian," meaning "to serve" or "to obey."
The position of a theow was one of subservience and dependence, as they were bound to their lord and required to fulfill various tasks and duties. They were considered the property of their lord and lacked personal freedom or autonomy. The status of theowship was generally inherited and passed down through generations.
The role of a theow encompassed a wide range of responsibilities such as agricultural labor, household chores, and military service. They were often subject to strict control and supervision by their lord and were provided with minimal rights or privileges.
As society evolved over time, the status of theow gradually declined, eventually merging with other social classes as serfdom and slavery diminished in medieval England. Theow is therefore an archaic term of historical significance, primarily used within the context of Old English literature and historical discussions about the feudal system and social classes of the Anglo-Saxon era.
Common Misspellings for THEOW
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