"European historian Spufford has written widely about money in the Middle Ages, and here describes the enormous expansion in European trade at local, regional, national, international, and even intercontinental scales during the 13th century, sparked by increases in population and money supply. Courts and consumers, helps and hindrances, manufactured goods, foodstuffs, slaves, and trade imbalances are among his topics"--Provided by publisher.
Virtually every aspect of medieval society is illuminated in this wide-ranging and detailed study, which includes stories of individual merchants whose fortunes and misfortunes bring the subject vividly to life. 265 illustrations, 29 in color.
The transformation of trade -- Courts and consumers -- From court to counting house -- Helps and hindrances to trade -- Trade in manufactured goods -- Trade in foodstuffs, raw materials, and slaves -- Imbalances in trade-- Conclusion: The pattern of trade.