Martyn Whittock shines a light on the past, as he brings the Middle Ages vividly to life and allows readers to glimpse eleventh-century rural society. Topics include Roger “the Raker” who drowned in his own sewage, a “merman” imprisoned in Orford Castle, the sufferings of the Jews of Bristol, and more. Each reveals the extraordinary diversity of medieval society. Through these characters and events—and using the latest discoveries and research—the dynamic and engaging panorama of medieval England is revealed.
Chapter 1. THE CHARACTER OF LATE ANGLO-SAXON SOCIETY
Chapter 2. THE CHANGING COUNTRYSIDE
Chapter 3. THE GROWTH AND DECLINE OF TOWNS
Chapter 4. CHANGING EXPRESSIONS OF CHRISTIAN BELIEF
Chapter 5. POPULATION, DIET AND HEALTH
Chapter 6. WOMEN AND THE FAMILY
Chapter 8. LANGUAGE, CULTURE AND ENTERTAINMENT
Chapter 9. LIVING ON THE EDGE: ALIENS AND OUTCASTS
Chapter 10. SIGNS AND MARVELS: THE MEDIEVAL COSMIC ORDER
Chapter 11. THE CYCLE OF THE YEAR
Chapter 12. THE SHAPE OF ENGLISH SOCIETY BY 1553