Students Participate in Immersive Feudalism Role Project

By Becca Brown, High School Social Studies Teacher

Beginning March 11, Ancient World History students launched an immersive, multi-phase project designed to bring the complexities of medieval Europe to life. By stepping into specific roles—ranging from powerful lords to hardworking merchants and serfs—students moved beyond the textbook to experience the social and political gravity of the Middle Ages firsthand.

The project challenged students to apply historical research to real-world problem-solving. Each participant navigated a unique historical crisis, such as the Black Death or a peasant revolt, and had to justify their responses through the eyes of their assigned social rank. To heighten the immersion, students wore role badges throughout the school day, allowing faculty and staff to interact with them according to their standing. This simulation required students to practice consistent perspective-taking and adhere to the period's strict Code of Chivalry in all their schoolwide interactions.

As the project concludes, the focus has shifted from individual survival to community development. Students are currently collaborating in "Town Councils" to draft Royal Charters and curate a "Founding Time Capsule." This final phase requires groups to evaluate the transition from decentralized feudal loyalty to the organized structure of a rising Nation-State. 

By connecting individual research to a shared community goal, students are demonstrating sophisticated skills in argumentation, collaboration, and historical analysis.