'His broad accounts of the social order, the importance of mortgaging in late medieval state formation, the increasing incidence of serfdom in both west and east, and late medieval ideals of reform, will prove of lasting value. At the same time the smooth integration of analyses of power into spatial analyses of commercial development, utilizing the tools of historical geography, ... Read moreprovides an exemplary case for historians of other regions to follow.' - Paul Warde, University of Cambridge, The Economic History Review 'It fills a major gap, and will be welcomed both by students and their teachers. Scott has written a very learned, wide-ranging and helpful book.' - Len Scales, University of Durham 'This tough-minded but wise and up-to-date introduction is appropriate for upper-division undergraduates and above.' - J.T. Rosenthal, Choice Show Less