The Routledge Handbook of Medieval Rural Life

This handbook compiles recent research on medieval European peasantry, emphasizing their agency and resilience. It explores village society changes, rural structures, and external influences, making it a vital resource for scholars and students.

The Routledge Handbook of Medieval Rural Life compiles the most recent research on the lives of peasants in medieval Europe, serving as a vital resource for scholars and students of medieval history, as well as those with an interest in rural, cultural, and social history. This comprehensive volume emphasizes the role of peasants as small-scale agricultural producers, highlighting their agency, skills, and resilience in shaping their environments and communities.

The handbook delves into the transformations within village societies throughout the medieval period, covering a wide chronological span and diverse geographical regions. It explores various aspects of rural life, including social structures, family dynamics, and hierarchies, while also examining practical elements such as tool use and trade. Additionally, the book addresses the effects of external factors, including famines and the Black Death, on rural communities, providing a nuanced understanding of the challenges faced by these populations.

By incorporating multidisciplinary research that combines archaeological findings, landscape studies, and traditional historical documentation, this volume offers valuable insights into the complexities of medieval rural life. It aims to present a well-rounded perspective on the experiences of peasants, making it an indispensable reference for anyone interested in the intricate tapestry of medieval society and its evolution over time.