This book explores the intricate web of technological advancements that shaped Mediterranean and European societies during the medieval and early modern periods. From the essential crafts of ploughing and tailoring to the sophisticated hydraulic systems and monumental building constructions, the author illuminates how ordinary people harnessed and transformed their world.

Drawing on recent scholarship on environmental history and the history of technology—as well as materials, object biographies, and the circulation of objects—the author examines the circulation of ideas and technologies in Europe and the Mediterranean. The book covers the evolution of food production, transportation, and communication, as well as the crafting of pottery, weapons, and machines. This in-depth historical analysis shows how these technological advancements had profound social and economic impacts on everyday life. The author’s meticulous research and engaging narrative bring to light the interconnectedness of various crafts and their contributions to the broader tapestry of human history.

By integrating archaeological findings, historical texts, and modern scientific methods, the book offers an interdisciplinary perspective on the technological practices of the pre-modern world. Perfect for scholars, students, and history enthusiasts, the book emphasizes the ingenuity and resilience of past civilizations and the enduring legacy of technological innovation.

Contents

Preface and Acknowledgments
On Dates and Calendars
Introduction: Technology, a Human Practice
1 Food Production
2 Hydraulic Technologies
3 Urbanism, Building Construction, and Urban Water Supplies
4 Transportation and Communication
5 Crafts and Industries
6 Instruments and Machines including Weapons
Conclusion: Why Premodern Technology Matters
Notes
Bibliography
Index

Source: https://www.press.jhu.edu/books/title/12898/technology-mediterranean-and-european-lands-600-1600