The Donkey and the Boat

This insightful book offers a fresh perspective on the Mediterranean economy from the 10th to 12th centuries, challenging previous assumptions and interpretations.

In The Donkey and the Boat, Chris Wickham presents a groundbreaking analysis of the Mediterranean economy during the 10th to 12th centuries. This work challenges long-standing assumptions about medieval economic systems by meticulously re-examining both documentary and archaeological sources. Wickham's detailed exploration reveals the intricacies of individual economies across the Mediterranean and how they interrelated, providing a fresh perspective on this historical period.

Wickham argues that previous interpretations of the Mediterranean economy were based on outdated syntheses that lacked comprehensive archaeological insights. By reassessing these sources, he uncovers a more nuanced understanding of the economic dynamics at play in regions such as Egypt, Tunisia, Sicily, the Byzantine Empire, Islamic Spain and Portugal, and north-central Italy. This comparative approach not only highlights the unique characteristics of each area's economy but also examines their interconnectedness, offering a holistic view of the medieval Mediterranean.

Ultimately, The Donkey and the Boat aims to reshape our understanding of how economies functioned in the medieval era. Wickham's work is pivotal for scholars and enthusiasts alike, as it encourages a rethinking of the underlying logic that governed economic interactions in this fascinating historical context. By providing a comprehensive account of these economies, the book sets a new standard for future research and invites readers to engage with the complexities of medieval economic life.