<i>The Serf, the Knight and the Historian</i> (review)
Diana Jefferies
Reviewed by: The Serf, the Knight and Historian Diana Jefferies Barthélemy, Dominique, Historian, trans. Graham Robert Edwards, Ithaca, Cornell University Press, 2009; paperback; pp. 368; R.R.P. US$29.95; ISBN 9780801475603. Dominique Barthélemy's central concern is to examine historiography that he claims created notion of a 'feudal society' in France from ninth century twelfth century. He rejects interpretation by historians such as Georges Duby society underwent fundamental change around first millennium producing system serfdom was recognisably different slavery antique times, new type warrior class, knighthood. argues this view French history nothing more than construct because far too complex fit into reductionist theories. This not time Barthélemy has expressed point view. edition been translated English Edwards La mutation de l'an mil a-t-elle eu lieu? Servage et chevalrie dans la des Xe XIe siècles published 1997. However, acknowledges his translator's skills preface saying Edwards' knowledge Middle Ages constant referral Latin sources improved original text (p. xi). In opening chapter, describes method being comparison between modern who uphold idea transformed older were familiar with transformation 7). His major area investigation involves examining how have read their primary sources. then proceeds reinterpret historical models own close reading divided two sections: concerned exploring constructions serfdom, second One example occurs early chapter on 'From Charters Notices: Saint-Aubin, Angers'. during based systematic distinction 'charter' 'notice'. It year 1000 formal objective charter superseded less subjective notice 14). categorizing documents manner, claim no longer public institution but had become private agreement 1000. As explains, 'documentary becomes [End Page 187] model reflection critical transition still marked Antiquity feudal 15). revisionist period therefore argument types misreading Once critique completed, begins draws rich picture serf's life. shows often voluntary state which it possible lead comfortable profitable final conclusion regard there single placed people servitude, servitude individual circumstances practical considerations. Therefore, impossible simplify only carefully without any preconceived notions work earlier historians, can truth about emerge. section, examination knighthood, uses same argue knighthood did suddenly appear at millennium. Again, turns linguistic analysis, word miles, emerge separate class eleventh embarks an mounted warriors activities described since Carolingian times. demonstrates very effectively forms existed...
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