whatis the relationship between a lord and his warriors?

The relationship between a lord (or king) and his warriors is known as "Comitatus." Also know as a sworn bond, this relationship was meant not only to protect common land, but to protect the lord (king) as well. The lord calls his warriors in when the land is threatened by outside forces.

The lord (king), in return, must provide protection to his warriors (thanes), a share of the wealth gained through victory, and to divide up the land by service or reputation.

This process is evident in Beowulf. Beowulf comes to Hrothgar's defense in the beginning of the epic, and he must later call on his own men when trouble brews at home.

Bland...