Lecture Notes: The Life of a Medieval Peasant

Overview

• Medieval peasants had a tough life, often compared to slavery.
• Peasants left little historical record except during notable events like the Peasants' Revolt.
• The Peasants' Revolt of 1381 was a significant uprising in England.

The Peasants' Revolt (1381)

• Peasants demanded the king abolish servitude, taxation, and the aristocracy.
• Tens of thousands gathered at Blackheath, near London.
• Actions included rampaging through London and targeting legal and tax records.
• Led by the commoners, the revolt was surprisingly organized and politically motivated.
• The revolt ultimately failed, but it left a lasting impact on ideas of freedom and equality.

Medieval Society Structure

• Feudal society was a pyramid with the king at the top and peasants at the bottom.
• Lords were often away, leaving peasants to organize themselves.
• Land was used by everyone but owned by none; obligations were mutual.

The Village of Laxton

• The only place in England still following the medieval farming system.
• Land is farmed in strips, separated by grassy borders known as "sicks."
• The "Court Leet" oversees farming practices, similar to medieval times.

Housing and Lifestyle

• Peasants lived in a range of homes, from simple huts to slightly more comfortable cottages.
• Lower-class peasants had minimal possessions; their homes were basic.
• Some wealthier peasants, like the Reeve, had better homes and more resources.

Diet and Social Life

• Diet was simple, often consisting of "pottage" (a boiled mixture of available ingredients).
• Beer was preferred over potentially unsafe water.
• The church was central to social life, offering festivals and numerous holidays.

Health and Education

• Despite poor conditions, some peasants received surprisingly advanced medical care.
• Dental health was relatively good due to a lack of sugar.
• Some peasants were literate, learning enough to handle legal matters.

Impact of the Black Death and Economic Changes

• The Black Death drastically reduced the population, increasing labor demand.
• Peasants began demanding higher wages and better conditions.
• New laws were created to curb peasants' newfound freedoms.

End of Feudalism

• The Peasants' Revolt highlighted the growing dissatisfaction among peasants.
• The breakdown of the feudal system led to the rise of independent farm workers.
• The shift towards sheep farming displaced many peasants.

Conclusion

• While medieval peasants faced significant hardships, their living conditions and societal roles evolved over time.
• The revolt and subsequent changes laid the groundwork for later social developments.
• Some peasants had relatively better lives compared to certain modern living conditions.