"This is exactly how I envision the dream of old world wealth you see on Downton Abbey or similar."

Then you misunderstand ...

That world you're envisioning is what happens after the "getting rich".

In the case of feudalism - and its remnants - the "getting rich" involved murderous expropriation of the lands and property of anyone that got in the way by sociopaths who hoarded and coveted everything that entered their awareness.

I think it was pretty hard work, actually ...