Feudalism, Guilds, and the Moral Economy of the Middle Ages
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The Medieval Economic Structure
Feudalism and the Agricultural Economy
During this period, society had an agricultural-based economy, combined with a feudal system. This system consisted of a king served by vassals (like dukes, counts, or barons) who gave him an oath of fealty in homage.
The Role and Regulation of Medieval Guilds
Industry revolved around guilds. These were centers of medieval "industrial" production—trade, professional, and craft organizations of Roman origin—and served as the "business units" of the Middle Ages. They functioned as a kind of exclusive union, though they were unions of masters, not workers.
Guilds regulated production and social conduct. Unlike a modern firm, the primary purpose of a guild was not first and foremost... Continue reading "Feudalism, Guilds, and the Moral Economy of the Middle Ages" »