The Shape of Urban Conflicts in Seventeenth-Century France

FAIN: FB-12308-74

William H. Beik
Northern Illinois University (DeKalb, IL 60115-2828)

To analyze the various public confrontations, i.e. attacks, murders, riots, arrests, etc., both among the elite and lower classes, in French towns in the 17th century, in order to learn about the evolution of local power structures in the midst of a centralized monarchical state. This research will clarify what the transformation from a medieval to a modern socieity meant for Europe and what the effects of political consolidation were for France. This study provides insights into political processes and social changes attendant upon the rise of the state, changes which are still going on in many parts of the world today.