While the pure "theow" or absolute slave disappeared therefore the ceorl or villein sank lower in the social scale.

But though the rural population was undoubtedly thrown more together and fused into a more homogeneous class, its actual position corresponded very imperfectly with the view of the lawyers.

All indeed were dependents on a lord.

The manor-house became the centre of every English village.

The manor-court was held in its hall; it was here that the lord or his steward received homage, recovered fines, held the view of frank-pledge, or enrolled the villagers in their tithing.