Northwest Europe in the Early Middle Ages, c.AD 600–1150
Christopher Loveluck
Christopher Loveluck's study explores the transformation of Northwest Europe (primarily Britain, France and Belgium) from era first post-Roman 'European Union' under Carolingian Frankish kings to so-called 'feudal' age, between c. AD 600 1150. During these centuries radical changes occurred in organisation rural world. Towns complex communities artisans merchant-traders emerged networks contact northern Europe, Mediterranean, Middle Far East were redefined, with long-lasting consequences into present day. Loveluck provides most comprehensive comparative analysis urban archaeological remains this area for twenty-five years. Supported by evidence architecture, relics, manuscript illuminations texts, book explains how power intentions elites confronted aspirations actions diverse peasantry, merchants, producing both intended unforeseen social changes.