The Medieval Scene An Informal Introduction to the Middle Ages

First published in 1930, this delightful book by G. G. Coulton (1858–1947) was first conceived as a series of broadcast lectures dealing with social conditions in Britain during the Middle Ages. With characteristic economy and precision, Dr Coulton unlocks the mysteries of the medieval mind by studying the social habits and circumstances that defined the period. Much of medieval society centred on the Church, and a significant portion of the study focuses on the ways in which politics, law, scholasticism and trade functioned in a society dominated by Christianity. Written in a clear, simple style and illustrated throughout with vignettes and plates, this book serves as an excellent introduction to medieval society.

1. Chaos and reconstruction; 2. The medieval village; 3. The church and the village; 4. Towns and fields; 5. Chivalry; 6. Monasticism; 7. Trade and travel; 8. Scholasticism and free-thought; 9. Law and politics; 10. The church and the economic world; 11. Popular religion.

With characteristic economy and precision, Dr Coulton unlocks the mysteries of the medieval mind by studying the social habits and circumstances that defined the period. Much of medieval society centred on the Church, and a significant portion of the study focuses on the ways in which politics, law, scholasticism and trade functioned in a society dominated by Christianity.