Super Short Summary

Life in a Medieval City by Frances and Joseph Gies explores the daily existence in Troyes, France, during the mid-thirteenth century, highlighting various facets of life such as culture, commerce, family dynamics, and the dominant role of the Christian Church. The book underscores Troyes's prosperity in 1250 with flourishing trade, skilled artisans, scholars, and a vibrant cultural scene all contributing to a socially mobile society. The collaboration of merchants and the educated elite fosters a booming economy and more comfortable living conditions, yet the divide between social classes remains evident. Using detailed illustrations and maps, the authors vividly reconstruct medieval Troyes while offering an accessible narrative for both academic and casual readers.