The public perception of the medieval ruling system often seems to be as king>duke>count>baron. But when one look at actual medieval realms, this does not seem to be the case. In the Holy Ronan Empire, you have duke, princes, counts, barons, lords and even knights as direct vasalls to the Emperor.

by PeterFriedrichLudwig

So, were there any instances in which this strict hierachy is true and translated into actual feudal hierachies?

DanKensington

But when one look at actual medieval realms, this does not seem to be the case.

Congratulations! You have summed up one of the many reasons Why 'Feudalism' Is Problematic, and why we don't say the F-word where the Medievalists can hear. If anyone wants to have a go at answering the question, please don't let this stop you; we always welcome more posts! For the moment, OP, I commend to your attention the appropriate section of the FAQ, dealing with why some historians don't do the F-word.