Neighbours and Strangers: Local Societies in Early Medieval Europe

This book explores social cohesion in rural settlements in western Europe from 700–1050, focusing on the interactions, interconnections, and networks of people who lived side by side. It draws evidence from most current western European countries and assesses the impact of supra-local agents, values, instructions, and demands of the wider literate world of Christianity.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 308 pages
Publication date: 12 July 2022
Publisher: Manchester University Press

This captivating book delves into the intricate dynamics of social cohesion within rural settlements in western Europe from the seventh to the eleventh centuries. It poses a profound question: to what extent did settlements, or districts, serve as cohesive units of social organization? The author's focus lies squarely on the intricate web of interactions, interconnections, and networks that existed among the people who lived side by side—neighbors. Drawing evidence from a wide range of current western European countries, the book employs a systematic comparative framework to explore the diverse practices of these regions.

In Neighbours and Strangers, the author delves into the complex interplay between local communities and the supra-local agents of landlords and rulers. It examines the various responses these communities adopted, as well as the impact these agents had on the small-scale residential groups. The book also assesses the profound influence of the wider literate world of Christianity, as conveyed by local priests, on local societies.

Through meticulous research and analysis, the book sheds light on the diverse ways in which rural settlements in western Europe navigated the challenges and opportunities of their time. It explores the role of social networks, kinship ties, and local customs in shaping the dynamics of community life, and how these interactions were influenced by broader cultural and religious trends.

One of the key themes of the book is the concept of "neighbourship," which refers to the complex relationships and interactions that existed between individuals and their communities. The author argues that neighbors played a crucial role in shaping social identities, maintaining social order, and fostering a sense of belonging. The book also explores the dynamics of conflict and cooperation within communities, as well as the ways in which individuals and groups negotiated their relationships with supra-local agents.

Another important aspect of the book is the role of local priests in mediating between the wider world of Christianity and the local communities. The author argues that priests played a vital role in transmitting Christian values, teachings, and practices to their congregations, and in shaping the moral and ethical norms of local society. However, the book also acknowledges the complexities and tensions that existed between the local communities and the religious authorities, particularly in the context of the growing influence of the papacy and the church.

In conclusion, Neighbours and Strangers is a groundbreaking work that offers a fresh perspective on the history of rural settlements in western Europe. It provides a rich and nuanced understanding of the complex web of social interactions, interconnections, and networks that shaped these communities, and how they responded to the challenges and opportunities of their time. The book is a valuable contribution to the field of historical studies, and will be of interest to scholars and researchers alike.

Weight: 392g
Dimension: 139 x 216 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781526163899