The Medieval Urban Experience and the Account Books of Najac

FAIN: FB-12850-76

Susanne F. Roberts
Yale University (New Haven, CT 06510-1703)

To examine the medieval urban experience, including the values associated with urban life. There will be an intensive study of medieval urban development, and a detailed study of a particular community through its own accounts. Study will be an analysis of the municipal accounts (1258-1332) of the southern French town of Najac. A comparison will be made between certain patterns relating economic activity, family connection, social standing and political power in Najac, to these relations in other towns. Through the consuls' activities as recorded in the accounts, it may be possible to compile price lists and population figures and to determine the levels of prosperity and the impact of the economic contraction of the 14th century.