14th C. Medieval Paris Household

Crossley-Holland, Nicole. Living and Dining in Medieval Paris: The Household of a Fourteenth-Century Knight. University of Wales Press, 1996.

In Living and Dining in Medieval Paris, Nicole Crossley-Holland delves into the domestic life of a 14th-century Parisian knight, with a central focus on the Ménagier de Paris, a manuscript written by a knight for his young wife. This manuscript covers everything from household management to food preparation, providing insights into both the culinary practices and social norms of the time. Crossley-Holland meticulously analyzes the text, recreating a vivid picture of life in a medieval knight's household, from his city residence with walled gardens to his country estates. Through the study of historical records and medieval recipes, she sheds light on the daily routines, agricultural practices, and social structures of the Parisian gentry.

Particularly fascinating are the sections where Crossley-Holland discusses medieval culinary techniques, bringing to life the rich flavors and traditions of the period. Her in-depth exploration of recipes, such as the preparation of meats and complex dishes, transforms the historical analysis into a sensory experience. The book is an essential read for anyone interested in medieval studies, particularly those curious about domestic life, gastronomy, and the social hierarchy of Paris during the Middle Ages​.

We pasted a bookplate on the inside cover, but it is otherwise in fine condition. The dust cover has shelf wear and a fold. ISBN: 9780708313688 / 070831368X. 

Asking $65.