Passages from Antiquity to Feudalism

Passages from Antiquity to Feudalism: A History of Early Europe

By Henri Pirenne

A sweeping and magisterial account of the transformation of Europe from the fall of the Roman Empire to the rise of feudalism

In this classic work of historical scholarship, Henri Pirenne argues that the collapse of the Roman Empire did not lead to a decline in trade and commerce, as was once thought, but rather to a dramatic increase in economic activity. This growth was driven by the rise of a new class of merchants and traders who took advantage of the chaos and instability of the post-Roman world to establish new trade routes and markets.

Pirenne's thesis has been challenged by some historians, but it remains a major contribution to our understanding of the early Middle Ages. His work is essential reading for anyone interested in the history of Europe.

Here are some of the key themes explored in Passages from Antiquity to Feudalism:

• The fall of the Roman Empire and its impact on trade and commerce
• The rise of a new class of merchants and traders
• The development of new trade routes and markets
• The growth of towns and cities
• The emergence of feudalism

Pirenne's writing is clear, concise, and engaging. He brings the past to life with his vivid descriptions and insightful analysis. Passages from Antiquity to Feudalism is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of Europe.

Praise for Passages from Antiquity to Feudalism

"A brilliant and original work of scholarship that has revolutionized our understanding of the early Middle Ages." — The New York Times

"A masterpiece of historical writing that is essential reading for anyone interested in the history of Europe." — The Times Literary Supplement

"Pirenne's work is a classic of historical scholarship that will continue to be read and debated for generations to come." — The American Historical Review

About the Author

Henri Pirenne (1862-1935) was a Belgian historian who is considered one of the founders of modern historiography. He is best known for his work on the early Middle Ages, particularly his thesis that the collapse of the Roman Empire did not lead to a decline in trade and commerce, but rather to a dramatic increase in economic activity. Pirenne's work has been translated into more than 20 languages and continues to be read and debated by historians around the world.

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