DK Eyewitness Books: Medieval Life : Discover Medieval Europe—from Life in a Country Manor to the Streets of a Growing Town

The Middle Ages ran from the end of the Dark Ages to the Renaissance in the 15th century. Eyewitness Medieval Life gives the reader an in-depth look at life during that era, in both the town and the country, and for the peasants as well as the aristocracy. Discover the hardships of life on the land, and the magnificent tournaments of the royal court. Learn how food was prepared and served at a great banquet. See the illuminated chronicles kept by scholarly monks and how master craftworkers used their skills to decorate the great cathedrals. Featuring artifacts, costumes, furniture, and historical illustrations, Medieval Life is a unique and compelling introduction to the people and culture of the Middle Ages Contents 5 6 The Middle Ages 8 Medieval society 10 A peasant’s life 12 Tied to the soil 14 Running a manor 16 A medieval home 18 From kitchen to table 22 Medieval women 24 The great barons 26 The royal court 28 The medieval soldier 30 The Church 32 Building a cathedral 34 The art of decoration 36 Holy orders 38 Life in a monastery 40 The written word 42 Saints and pilgrims 44 The Islamic world 46 Trade and commerce 48 Life in the town 50 The guild masters 52 The stonemasons 54 Fairs and feast days 56 Medieval music 58 Plays and parades 60 Death and disease 62 The birth of a new age 64 Did you know? 66 Who’s who? 68 Find out more 70 Glossary 72 Index An illustrated look at various aspects of life in medieval Europe, covering everyday life, religion, royalty, and more