To what extent did social structures and systems in two societies change significantly?

Candidates will consider the extent to which social structures and societies changed in two medieval societies. While the focus of the response must be within the timeframe of this topic, the two societies need not be contemporaneous with each other. Further, the two societies may or may not be chosen from different regions. The extent of change may be measured by considering not only the ways in which societies changed but also aspects of continuity, in relation to, for example, the role of women, changes in class structure and social hierarchy, assimilation of migrant populations, patterns of landholdings and obligations or the transition from migrant to permanent settlement. The impact of the rise of towns and cities may be considered. Each society may be considered separately or a thematic approach may be adopted.