Legal Definitions - homagium

Definition: Homagium (h-may-jee-m) is a formal ceremony in which a feudal tenant acknowledges the tenure granted by a lord. It is also known as homage.

Examples:

• Homagium ligium: This is a type of homage known as homage liege. It is a solemn and binding oath of fealty to the lord, which includes military service and attendance in the superior's courts.
• Homagium planum: This is a type of homage that only requires the homager to pledge fidelity to the lord, without any obligation of military service or attendance in the superior's courts.
• Homagium reddere: This is the process by which a vassal disowns and defies the lord, as prescribed in feudal law by a set form and method.
• Homagium simplex: This is a type of homage that acknowledges tenure, while reserving the rights of other lords.

The examples illustrate the different types of homagium and the obligations that come with them. Homagium ligium requires the homager to provide military service and attend the superior's courts, while homagium planum only requires fidelity. Homagium reddere is the process by which a vassal can renounce homage, and homagium simplex acknowledges tenure while reserving the rights of other lords.