Medieval Political Economy
Story of Godric of Finchale ( )
A. The Plow 1. Three-piece iron plow 2. Draft horses (6 th -8 th centuries) 3. Good Horse Collar (c. 800) 4. Iron horseshoes (c. 900) 5. Cultivation of oats B. Three-crop rotation I. Agricultural Revolution
II. Feudal World A.In the aftermath of Frankish collapse and Viking invasions 1. Network of personal loyalty 2. Fiefs in return for fealty a. oath of fealty B. Variations in feudal responsibilities 1. Often garrison duty and attendance at court 2. Stable society from warrior ruling class?
III. Revival of Commerce A.More money available 1.Peasants increasingly pay rent instead of labor B. Role of the Vikings C. Role of the Crusades D. Trade Routes
IV. Rise of Cities A.Cities gain charters 1.Revolts 2.Lords/Kings see the advantages B. Guilds 1. Organize trades 2. Social and political functions C. Jews
V. Social and Political Change A.New money finances crusades, castles, cathedrals, universities 1. Feudalism and church strengthened 2. Feudalism and church challenged B. Change for peasants 1. From serfs to peasants C. New middle class D. Challenge to church 1. On money and wealth