Wim Blockmans

Showing Status: Representation of Social Positions in the Late Middle Ages (Medieval Texts and Cultures of Northern Europe) Wim Blockmans

An illuminating study of social symbolism in northern Europe. The exhibition of rank, wealth, power, occupation and even intellect were of crucial importance in medieval society, where seating plans, menus, fashions and foods were all contolled by strict etiquette. This book is full of facts and figures, such as table plans, odd fashion laws, lists of household servants with salaries, which illustrate the social do's and don'ts. It also presents ways in which one could climb through the ranks. Symbols were an equally important element in late medieval arts, including Arthurian romances, Flemish painting and northern wood carvings.