Description
Book SynopsisNearly a century after it was first published in 1925, Medieval Cities remains one of the most provocative works of medieval history ever written. This book argues that it was not the invasion of the Germanic tribes that destroyed the civilization of antiquity, but rather the closing of Mediterranean trade by Arab conquest in the seventh century.
Trade ReviewPraise for the previous edition: "An indispensable complement to the confusing history of the Carolingian period and early days of European civic development... In short, it is one of the best sort of contributions to historical writing--those which combine simplicity with erudition and imagination with accuracy."--New Statesman (London)
Table of ContentsIntroduction by Michael McCormick ix Translator's Foreword xxxiii Preface xxxv Chapter I. The Mediterranean 1 Chapter II. The Ninth Century 16 Chapter III. City Origins 35 Chapter IV. The Revival of Commerce 49 Chapter V. The Merchant Class 68 Chapter VI. The Middle Class 84 Chapter VII. Municipal Institutions 109 Chapter VIII. Cities and European Civilization 138 Bibliography 153 Index 157
