Medieval Economic Thought

by Diana Wood

This book offers an introduction to medieval economic thought, as it emerges from the works of the twelfth to the fifteenth century academic theologians, lawyers and other sources. Using Italian merchants' writings, vernacular poetry, parliamentary legislation, and manorial court rolls, it discusses property, charity, the role of money, weights, measures, coinage, trade, fair price and fair wage. It makes a relatively neglected subject accessible by exploring the relationship between theory and practice.

Genres: History, Economics, Medieval History

274 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2002

Reviews

[Asa Brunk · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book provides really valuable insight into the shifting economic structure of medieval Europe, creating a comprehensive picture of economic understandings in the period. While the language and style is cumbersome (to be expected coming from an academic book on economic history), Wood’s analysis is very solid. I personally would be interested in seeing more of a social focus in a writing like this along with more time devoted to understanding class and gender issues, but Wood achieves her goals of creating an economic history very well. Overall, I enjoyed the insights of this book but struggled with the style and personally prefer a more social history rather than economic.

[Steve Bivans · Rating 3 out of 5]

Wood's book is an interesting and decent introduction to medieval economic thought, but is lacking in some detail. How did economic thought play out in everyday life? While she makes some attempt to connect theory to practice, the practical side is slighted somewhat. In a survey textbook of this nature, bound by size restrictions, it is a difficult task to cover such a broad subject. Overall, Wood has done an admirable job. The book serves as a good introduction to the subject, but is lacking in the detail needed to be a complete, all-in-one textbook.