Yes, in that era it was somewhat lawless interfeudal warfare, arguably as big as a threat as those from other kingdoms/empires. The Italian city states would a

Yes, in that era it was somewhat lawless interfeudal warfare, arguably as big as a threat as those from other kingdoms/empires. The Italian city states would also fight against each other. I think part of the motivation for the Crusades, was redirect those feuds elsewhere. And it worked somewhat.